Martina Hingis

She prowls the court on cat-like feet,
this slender beauty, so petite,
and all her measured steps exude
a slinky, feline attitude.

She offers up a spinning serve
which makes a slow and arching curve
then "paints the line" on either side,
the middle T or way out wide.

The volleys, lobs, and shots that drop
inside the net then quickly stop,
are rendered with an easy grace,
reflected in her lovely face.

And in her eyes, whose steely glint
belies their softness, there's a hint
of playful mischief, which could be
her most endearing quality.