YEC Day 1

Radwanska vs Kvitova

Don't think these 2 ladies have played since last year's YEC where Kvitova won a very tight 2 set match. Radwanska has improved in leaps and bounds since that meeting whilte Kvitova's form has taken a dip. Kvitova has the weapons to blast Radwanska off the court but Radwanska has a uncanny ability to counteract these power hitters. 6 months ago, Radwanska would have been an easy pick, however, with both of these ladies' not in the best of form, predicting this match won't be so straight forward. Still, Radwanska is carrying battle scars from the long season and will not be at her retrieving best. Petra has the fire power, but will be rusty in her first match out. Look for Kvitova to play 1 set where she will be misfiring but eventually settle and win it in 3.

Pick: Kvitova in 3 sets.

Williams vs Kerber

Last time they played, Kerber beat a tired Serena in 2 sets. Serena is well rested and is looking to prove she is indeed the MVP of 2012. Kerber will try to keep each ball in play and hope for Serena to miss. Serena will look to dictate play but needs to be patient and wait for the opening. Serena hates losing to the same person twice and would also like to avenge Venus' loss to Kerber at the US Open.

Pick: Serena in 2 sets

Sharapova vs Errani

Probably the surest bet of the day. A repeat of the French Open will likely produce the same results. Sharapova winning easily and overpowering the diminutive Errani who is having the season of her life, both in singles and doubles. Good practice for Maria to work on her ground strokes as Errani is bound to make her hit that one extra shot. In the end however, Maria will simply have too much firepower for the Italian to handle and will cruise on this fast indoor court.

Pick: Sharapova in 2 sets.