By KATHERINE HOBY
She has been labelled the American Anna Kournikova and "the Britney Spears of tennis".
Rising American teen tennis star Ashley Harkleroad is hitting all the right shots on court - and making pulses race off it.
The 17-year-old blitzed through her second round qualifying match against New Zealander Ilke Gers 6-3 6-0 yesterday at the ASB Classic.
And even without the midriff-baring, daring outfits which have caught headlines in the past she has already captured one heart.
Linda Hammers, of Mt Eden, dragged 16-year-old son Luke to the tennis. He was strictly a cricket fan - until yesterday.
"He said 'who's that?' when we arrived," Mrs Hammers said, as they watched the long-limbed Harkleroad take over the court.
Harkleroad was happy and relaxed after her victory yesterday, but not underestimating her last qualifying match. Today she plays fellow American Sarah Taylor, who beat her the last time they played.
The ASB Classic starts today, followed by the Heineken Open from January 6-11.
Although last year's drawcard Anna Kournikova is not making an Auckland appearance, tickets have still been in hot demand. The final day of the men's tennis action is sold out, with others filling fast.
Harkleroad laughs at being the Britney Spears of the court.
"Well, I like Britney Spears and it's nice when people say nice things about me but I can't hold a tune. I'd rather keep the focus on my game."
She has heard the comparisons with Kournikova many times, and is happy with them. But says she cares more about her tennis than anything else. "If I'm not doing well, I'm not happy. Tennis is why I'm here."
Tennis: Britney of the courts keeps her eye on the big event
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