In-form Ivanovic ready to challenge big guns

LOS ANGELES, Aug 13 (Reuters) Ana Ivanovic confirmed her status as one of the US Open favourites with victory over Nadia Petrova in the Los Angeles Classic final.

The 19-year-old Serb has really found her form in the past three months, winning Berlin in May, and reaching the French Open final and Wimbledon semis before arriving in Los Angeles.

The tall, broad-shouldered brunette has taken down several top-10 players in the process, including Maria Sharapova, Svetlana Kuznetsova, Jelena Jankovic and Petrova, whom she overwhelmed 7-5 6-4 in the Los Angeles final yesterday.

''I've beaten most of the top players and that's given my me a lot of confidence,'' Ivanovic told reporters. ''In women's tennis, anyone can beat anyone. When I play players better ranked better than me, I feel I can beat them. I want to enjoy this because this is the best time of my career. I'm really happy to be at the place where I am now.

Part of the reason for Ivanovic's rise is the work she has put in off the court with her trainer Scott Burns.

The Serb's increased fitness and agility have enabled her to control matches with her huge forehand.

''Her fitness coach did a good job with her, she's lost some weight and is dangerous and even out of difficult positions she's coming up with big shots,'' Petrova said.

Petrova said Ivanovic would be at least a top-five contender at the US Open starting in two weeks.

Ivanovic has beaten Maria Sharapova twice but has yet to overcome world number one Justine Henin, Wimbledon champion Venus Williams or Australian Open champion Serena Williams.

''I feel pretty confident in my game and would like to challenge them and play them again because definitely I would have a good chance,'' Ivanovic said.

Ivanovic will reach a career high number four when the world rankings are released today.

REUTERS KK SBA RAI0723