Confident Kuznetsova

The big hitting Russian has been working hard to prepare for the upcoming Grand Slam event - the second of the year - by playing in clay tournaments in Charleston, Warsaw, Berlin and Rome.

"I have made some mistakes during these tournaments, but I'd rather make them now instead of during the French Open," she said.

"The main thing is to get ready for Roland Garros. I feel very comfortable on clay. I am playing well and have my chances."

The 20-year old reached the final in Warsaw - ultimately losing to Belgium's Kim Clijsters - and progressed to the quarterfinals both in Charleston and Berlin. In Rome she lost in the semi finals to fellow compatriot Dinara Safina.

Despite the set-back in Italy, Kuznetsova has been slowly playing her way back to the top after a suffering a disappointing year in 2005.

"Last year was a bit harder for me, I felt lost and didn't know what to do in order to come back, so I took a long break and prepared well for this season," she said.

"I made some important changes to improve my career; I started working with just one coach at the same club; I worked on my on court tactics and I have sought help from nutritionists and psychologists to help me get in the best possible shape."

It payed off as the St Petersburg native won the Miami title this year. "When I feel good, it gives me more confidence, more energy and I have fun on the court."

And the Russian is convinced the best is yet to come: " I am still young and I am already in the top ten. I hope to improve my game, get a higher ranking and show good results."