Ekaterina Makarova def. Agnieszka Radwanska 6-4 6-4
The normally reliable Pole imploded today, committing more unforced errors than her normally risky Russian. After racing to a 4-0 lead, she just went missing and allowed Makarova to dominate her. Ekaterina did very well to end points at the net, something which players need to do against defensive players like Radwanska. The Russian continues to surprise and will make her quarter-final debut in US Open. Agnieszka couldn't make it to the quarter-finals, making it the only blemish in her consistent showings in the slams.
Match focus:
Alison Riske vs. Daniela Hantuchova
Wildcard Riske is making the most of her entry by reaching her first ever 4th round. She will face veteran, Hantuchova for a place in the quarter-finals. Daniela is no longer the force she used to be, but still has tons of experience more than Riske. Playing on Arthur Ashe might be a daunting task for the young American. That is where experience comes in. I think being thrust into the limelight will be too much for Alison, and Daniela will edge her in a tight 3 setter.
Pick: Hantuchova in 3 sets
Ana Ivanovic vs. Victoria Azarenka
Ana Ivanovic has been a consistent performer here in the US Open, reaching the 4th round for the past few years. However, she has always fallen at this stage and I do not expect anything different this year. Azarenka wasn't good against Cornet, but she steadied herself and got the win. Sometimes it's important to get that one bad day out of your system. Against Ana, Victoria will be confident as she defeated her in Carlsbad despite playing at 50%.
Pick: Azarenka in 2 sets
Simona Halep vs. Flavia Pennetta
Breezing through Kirilenko in less than an hour, Simona Halep is in the form of her life and her next victim will likely be Pennetta. The Italian plays a similar game to Halep, but age must be a factor as the young Romanian can run around the court all day long. Flavia needs to be at her absolute best to conquer the in form Halep. Nothing is impossible, but it'll be a tough task for Flavia to replicate her success against Errani.
Pick: Halep in 2 sets
Roberta Vinci vs. Camila Giorgi
We might have a new star in the making if Giorgi succeeds here. Looking as cute as a button with an imposing game, she might be the next poster girl for WTA. She will face compatriot, Roberta Vinci for a place in the quarter-finals. Camila handled the defensive Caroline extremely well, never taking her foot off the pedal at all. However, handling Vinci's slice will require her to hav some restraint and not go for her shots all the time. Sadly, I don't think the low bouncing balls will allow Giorgi to play her game.
Pick; Vinci in 2 sets
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