Davenport Gives Partner Morariu Birthday Present

World No. 1 Lindsay Davenport did her superwoman impression Wednesday at the Australian Open, defeating Alicia Molik 6-4, 4-6, 9-7, then turning around and playing the doubles semifinals with American countrywoman Corina Morariu, advancing to the final with another three-set win.

Davenport entered the Aussie Open recovering from bronchitis, and now has approximately 20 hours rest before facing slam semifinal neophyte Nathalie Dechy of France.

"It's my partner's birthday," Davenport said before the doubles match. "And I feel fine...It's tough to come back again tomorrow."

In her singles quarterfinal Davenport fought off two break points in the final game before defeating the Aussie Molik and overcoming a raucous crowd in Rod Laver Arena.

"There were a lot of ups and downs out here," Davenport said. "I'm not sure how I'm standing here. I felt I was really lucky today -- after failing to finish it off at 5-4. She had a lot of momentum and I'm not sure exactly how I was able to get it back."

Davenport's serve failed her at numerous times during the match, with 11 doubles faults, including one on set point in the second.

"My game revolves around my serve, and I struggled a bit," Davenport said. "I just got out of rhythm. I was still able to win and get her back at the end."

Davenport has beaten Dechy in all five of their meetings.