What a tough year for Ashley, and a strange year for woman's tennis.

In 2002/2003 - Ashley had some physical problems which halted her
rise in the rankings and limited her play. In 2003/2004, following
an excellent start - there seemed to be a combination of both
physical and mental issues, again cutting the season short and again
limiting her potential.

But
Who would have thought, following a year of surgery and recovery
that Davenport would be #1. Who would have thought the Williams
sisters would not be a factor in the final ranking. Just one
Wimbledon ago there was a much touted match between one Russian teen
and an American teen - Maria and Ashley, and look at the standings
today, exactely 120 apart. Look at the rise and fall of Jelena
Dokic, look at the rising crop of new stars.

Tough to predict how Ashley will perform in 2005, but I am keen to
learn and find out.
Congratulations to Davenport for an incredible year.