Ready to go to the next level

The pressure of expectation has been high for the 28-year-old Woodvale product ever since her breakthrough singles effort at the Open in 2008.

That year, she reached the last 16 after upsetting 15th seed Patty Schnyder and former world number one Amelie Mauresmo.

But the left-hander considers herself a better player now than when she reached her career-high ranking of 39 in 2008.

Dellacqua recently booked a place in the nation’s most prestigious tennis tournament for the 11th time, but had to do so via a wildcard win over up-and-comer Arina Rodionova.

Speaking to media after the game, Dellacqua indicated she was in a good head space.

‘Physically, I’m feeling great and playing some of my best tennis,’ she said.

‘Even back in 2008 when I had my best ranking (39), I feel I’m a better player now.’

Having carved a reputation as one of the world’s best doubles players ” she’s ranked 11th in the WTA standings ” her focus has returned to the singles court, where she hopes to get back inside the women’s top 100.

This would mean automatic qualification for the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open next year, rather than relying on wildcard entry.

Currently at 142, the Australian number two outlined her drive to return to winning tennis against the world’s best.

‘I’ve played long enough now to know what the level at WTA and Grand Slam level is,’ she said.

‘Even from here, there’s another level that I need to take.’