Day 9: Masha dominance

Masha continues her march towards her career slam today.

Match focus:

(2) Maria Sharapova vs Klara Zakopalova

No need for any analysis here.

Pick: Sharapova in straight sets. Losing not more than 5 games.

(4) Petra Kvitova vs. Varvara Lepchenko

Petra Kvitova dropped a set to Nina Bratchikova in her previous round but otherwise has cruised through this tournament without much difficulty. She will face a tired Varvara Lepchenko for a place in the quarter-finals. Varvara has had long matches in this tournament and will surely be feeling the effects. Besides, facing the Wimbledon champion will have a certain intimidating factor. I expect an easy day for the Czech.

Pick: Kvitova in straight sets

(7) Li Na vs. (Q) Yaroslava Shvedova

Li overcomes tricky McHale and now faces former quarter-finalist Yaroslava Shvedova. Shvedova is on a comback trail after trawling in the ITFs and has already played 6 matches here. This will be her 7th. Sadly, the wheels will come off sometime and it should be happening here. Li is playing well and conquering her demons very impressively. After spraying errors in her previous round, she reined it in and managed to win comfortably in the next 2 sets.

Pick: Li in straight sets

(23) Kaia Kanepi vs. Arantxa Rus

Struggling mightily to close out Caroline Wozniacki, Kaia will face unheralded Arantxa Rus in this 4th round encounter. I believe Kaia will have an easier time closing this out as Arantxa is not a big name. Besides, Kaia will be confident now that despite losing her lead numerous times, she was able to win the match eventually. Arantxa should be happy with her best showing ever and be content to be still in the tournament.

Pick: Kanepi in straight sets