Results:
Azarenka def Li 76 63
Azarenka seals the year end number one spot with this victory and sees herself in the semi finals for the 2nd consecutive year. Azarenka played well to win it in 2, both battling in the first set before Azarenka eased to victory in the 2nd. Azarenka will be confident in her next match against Sharapova having won all their non-clay court meetings this year.
Radwanska def Errani 67 75 64
In the longest match of the championships, Radwanska squeaks past Errani with this grueling victory. Radwanska had to take the initiative in this contest as Errani's game is built around defence. Nonetheless, the match offered long rallies and thrilling points with both players struggling to get the advantage. Credit to Errani for playing well this tournament and giving all her opponents a hard time, even getting a win which will be crucial in keeping her in the top 10 next year once her points from 2012 start dropping off. Radwanska has less than 24 hours to recover before her next match but after a drop in form following her Wimbeldon finals appearance, she must be happy with this result.
Sharapova def Stosur 60 63
Sharapove demolishes Stosur to keep her near perfect record against the Australian. Stosur had no answer to Sharapova's power and easily gifted Sharapova the match. Maria ends up top in her group and avoids facing Serena until the finals.
Predictions:
Serena vs Radwanska
Rematch of their surprisingly entertaining and competitive Wimbledon final. Serena is just starting to find her game and this match up will make her hit a few more balls which would make her sharper for the finals. Radwanska should be proud of herself for just reaching the finals but Serena is well rested and all ready to end the year with a bang. Serena has too much power for the Pole and the only way Radwanska will win is if Serena pulls out injured or Serena simply can't put a ball into play. That's not going to happen as Serena has gotten better with each match and should cruise to an easy victory and be even more devastating in the finals.
Pick: Serena in 2 sets.
Azarenka vs Sharapova
It's no. 1 vs no. 2 again, but this time in the Semi finals. As mentioned earlier, Sharapova hasn't beaten Azarenka in a non-clay match this year. Sharapova has been playing good tennis this tournament and would relish another chance at Azarenka. Game wise, Maria hits harder, serves harder and grunts louder. However, Azarenka moves better and has a better net game. Look for Maria to be the aggressor this match as Azarenka patiently waits for the opening to strike. Maria needs to keep her errors to a minimum and not jump the gun early and try for a winner too soon into a rally. With the number 1 ranking all tied up, Azarenka is playing without pressure and would love another shot at Serena in the finals. Her consistency will be the difference in this match as will the psychological benefit of having beaten Sharapova soundly in all of their hard court match, save one, this year.
Pick: Azarenka in 3 sets.
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