In the latest of her series of diary pieces leading up to Wimbledon 2010, British tennis star ELENA BALTACHA is disappointed to miss out on a place at the US Open.

I had a really tough battle with Anastasia Rodionova but lost out 4-6 6-2 6-4.

Of course it's disappointing when you get to the last round of qualifying for a Grand Slam and fall short.

It was a tough match, I knew it was going to be very difficult and that I would have to play my best tennis to win.

I fought very hard, but I think she was the better player.

I would have had to win a round in the main draw to make it into the world's top 100 as I am 102 and on the borderline.

But I managed to defend the points from last season as I made last-round qualifying last year, so my ranking is not going to drop.

I am getting closer and closer and it's really exciting.

Now I am going back home and will be playing 10 tournaments in Europe.

I do feel that my tennis is getting much better. My quality has gone up and it's a shame I did not make the cut for the main draw.

On a brighter note, I was pleased to pick up the player of the year award from tennisscotland, which my coach Nino Severino surprised me with over here.

It's a great honour and I'd like to thank everyone involved in the decision.

It's a fantastic atmosphere here at Flushing Meadows. I remember playing juniors here for the first time and I thought I would love to come back and have a go at the seniors.

I love New York and we have been doing some sightseeing and it is a really great city.

The tournament is really well-organised and it's special as it's a Grand Slam - it's just a pity that I didn't make the cut.

When I get back home, I'll be cheering on Andy Murray, who is playing fantastic tennis. The surface and conditions will suit him very well.

Fingers crossed, he will do well and I really do think he has a good chance for the title.

He is playing great tennis and can match anyone in the world right now.

Elena Baltacha was talking to BBC Scotland's Kheredine Idessane

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