Firstly, I want to apologize for missing out the first day. I've been on the grounds covering for another lifestyle blog, www.superadrianme.com. Please refer to that blog for daily highlights! Due to the busy schedule, I can only update the matches with text. No fancy photos this time. Sorry!
Maria Sharapova vs. Caroline Wozniacki
Sharapova lost to Caroline in their last encounter in US Open. However, the Russian seems to be hitting well again after winning Beijing. Judging by her practice seesion, Maria seems to be getting her groove back. This will not bode well for Caroline, as the surface suits the flat hard hitters. Caroline will need to take initiative or run around with out of this world defence.
Pick: Sharapova in 2 sets
Petra Kvitova vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
It's really a no-brainer to call Kvitova the favourite here. Radwanska's form is nowhere to be found, while Petra thrives on the hard indoor surface. Will be surprised if Petra loses more than 5 games here.
Pick: Kvitova in 2 sets
Showing posts with label agnieszka radwanska. Show all posts
Showing posts with label agnieszka radwanska. Show all posts
Monday, 20 October 2014
Wednesday, 15 October 2014
Singapore player focus: Agnieszka Radwanska
I
Season highlights:
Radwanska's season has been marked with disappointments. With the exception of her Montreal title, she was always losing the important matches in the latter stages. Yes, she's consistent, but Aga lacks the killer blow to win the big titles. The path was clear for her to win her first slam in Melbourne after upsetting Azarenka, but instead she falls to Cibulkova, a player she double bagelled just last year. With her poor form in recent months, she barely made it to the top 8, and her chances here are slim.
Game style
Known for her court craft, Radwanska will not overpower you with big ground strokes. Instead, she uses her bag of tricks which include deft drop shots, slices and lobs to make life a nightmare. However, her game is quite dependent on her opponent's level of play. If her opponent is seeing the ball well, Radwanska tends to be overpowered.
Chances of winning Singapore: 10%
After her title run in Montreal, Agnieszka went AWOL, posting a 6-5 win loss record some then. The only respectable loss in that period was to Wozniacki. The rest of her losses are inexcusable and shows how bad her form is now. Personally, I don't think Agnieszka herself has any high hopes of performing well here either. Of the elite eight, Radwanska will be the one who everyone's looking forward to draw.
Prediction: Round robin
Thursday, 14 August 2014
Cincinnati QF: Can Caroline continue her run?
Schedule of play:
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/1118/title/western-southern-open
Match focus:
Serena Williams vs. Jelena Jankovic
Almost every time these 2 players play, there is bound to be some drama involved. Jelena's game troubles Serena, but not enough for the win. Therefore, I don't see anything that can prevent Serena from winning this. Besides, Jelena's form of late is not stellar, so Serena should be able to claim this victory.
Pick: Williams in 2 sets
Ana Ivanovic vs. Elina Svitolina
Elina Svitolina continues her march by upsetting Carla Suarez Navarro in 3 tight sets. However, she will face an uphill task against the in-form Ana Ivanovic in the quarter-finals. There is no doubt that the Ukrainian can play a good game. However, Ana is very high on confidence at the moment, and will not lose to someone who's as raw as Elina. Unless the injury that bothered Ana creeps up again, I don't see how Ana is losing this.
Pick: Ivanovic in 2 sets
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Caroline Wozniacki
With her relatively easy disposal of Angelique Kerber, it is almost safe to say that peak Wozniacki is back. She took a while to get back on her feet after her brutal public break-up, but it has done her good as she's able to concentrate wholly on her tennis. Radwanska is a tough nut to crack, but if there is a time for an upset, it is now. The Pole must be exhuasted from her title run last week in Montreal, so Caroline needs to seize the opportunity and tire her out. If Caroline can make Agnieszka hit that extra ball, she can very well cause another upset here.
Pick: Wozniacki in 3 sets
Maria Sharapova vs. Simona Halep
As Maria struggles through another match, Simona Halep will be quietly confident of her chances against the Russian. The tall blonde has been leaking errors and just lacking confidence on her serve. Simona will want to seek revenge for her heartbreaking loss in the finals of Roland Garros, and this is the perfect opportunity for this. Simona's calm demeanour will not be rattled by Sharapova's incessant fist-pumping, so this should be a great battle.
Pick: Halep in 3 sets
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/1118/title/western-southern-open
Match focus:
Serena Williams vs. Jelena Jankovic
Almost every time these 2 players play, there is bound to be some drama involved. Jelena's game troubles Serena, but not enough for the win. Therefore, I don't see anything that can prevent Serena from winning this. Besides, Jelena's form of late is not stellar, so Serena should be able to claim this victory.
Pick: Williams in 2 sets
Ana Ivanovic vs. Elina Svitolina
Elina Svitolina continues her march by upsetting Carla Suarez Navarro in 3 tight sets. However, she will face an uphill task against the in-form Ana Ivanovic in the quarter-finals. There is no doubt that the Ukrainian can play a good game. However, Ana is very high on confidence at the moment, and will not lose to someone who's as raw as Elina. Unless the injury that bothered Ana creeps up again, I don't see how Ana is losing this.
Pick: Ivanovic in 2 sets
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Caroline Wozniacki
With her relatively easy disposal of Angelique Kerber, it is almost safe to say that peak Wozniacki is back. She took a while to get back on her feet after her brutal public break-up, but it has done her good as she's able to concentrate wholly on her tennis. Radwanska is a tough nut to crack, but if there is a time for an upset, it is now. The Pole must be exhuasted from her title run last week in Montreal, so Caroline needs to seize the opportunity and tire her out. If Caroline can make Agnieszka hit that extra ball, she can very well cause another upset here.
Pick: Wozniacki in 3 sets
Maria Sharapova vs. Simona Halep
As Maria struggles through another match, Simona Halep will be quietly confident of her chances against the Russian. The tall blonde has been leaking errors and just lacking confidence on her serve. Simona will want to seek revenge for her heartbreaking loss in the finals of Roland Garros, and this is the perfect opportunity for this. Simona's calm demeanour will not be rattled by Sharapova's incessant fist-pumping, so this should be a great battle.
Pick: Halep in 3 sets
Sunday, 10 August 2014
Montreal final: Radwanska crashes Venus' party
Montreal final:
Agnieszka Radwanska def. Venus Williams 6-4 6-2
Agnieszka Radwanska definitely did not read the script today as she took out sentimental favourite Venus Williams in 2 straightforward sets. Well, Venus was too error-prone today and Radwanska did a great job at making her hit that extra ball. This is the Pole's first title this year, and rockets her to number 3 in the race to Singapore. As for Venus, she can take comfort in reaching the finals here, winning matches against higher ranked players. Let's hope she beings this confidence to New York and do some damage there.
Agnieszka Radwanska def. Venus Williams 6-4 6-2
Agnieszka Radwanska definitely did not read the script today as she took out sentimental favourite Venus Williams in 2 straightforward sets. Well, Venus was too error-prone today and Radwanska did a great job at making her hit that extra ball. This is the Pole's first title this year, and rockets her to number 3 in the race to Singapore. As for Venus, she can take comfort in reaching the finals here, winning matches against higher ranked players. Let's hope she beings this confidence to New York and do some damage there.
Montreal final: Venus turns back time
Montreal final:
Venus Williams vs. Agineszka Radwanska
Striking the ball with real authority and covering the court with her huge strides, Venus Williams of the early 2000s was on display in her semi-final match against Serena Williams. The elder Williams's recent good form bodes well for her US Open campaign, and players will be eager to avoid this dangerous floater in the draw. However, Radwanska loves the absorb the power and turn it into some trick shots of her own. So Venus will need all her energy tonight. There is no doubt though that the crowd will be behind Venus, and besides, Agnieszka has faltered badly in big matches this year. Thus, I'm going with another 3 set victory for Venus to cap off her fairytale comeback.
Pick: Williams in 3 sets
Venus Williams vs. Agineszka Radwanska
Striking the ball with real authority and covering the court with her huge strides, Venus Williams of the early 2000s was on display in her semi-final match against Serena Williams. The elder Williams's recent good form bodes well for her US Open campaign, and players will be eager to avoid this dangerous floater in the draw. However, Radwanska loves the absorb the power and turn it into some trick shots of her own. So Venus will need all her energy tonight. There is no doubt though that the crowd will be behind Venus, and besides, Agnieszka has faltered badly in big matches this year. Thus, I'm going with another 3 set victory for Venus to cap off her fairytale comeback.
Pick: Williams in 3 sets
Friday, 8 August 2014
Montreal SF: Venus vs. Serena part 25
Serena Williams vs. Venus Williams
As expected, Serena struggled but eventually subdued Caroline Wozniacki. Can she escape against her sister, Venus Williams? The elder sister has been inspirational throughout the week, fighting her heart out on the court. She knows her smaller sister's game inside out, so that is an advantage that the other players don't have. However, yet another draining 3 setter will definitely put Venus at a disadvantage. Serena always plays her best in big matches, and this is as big as it gets. Venus might pull a set off, but Serena will steady the ship eventually.
Pick: Serena in 3 sets
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Ekaterina Makarova
A surprise semi-final appearance for Makarova here, and she will like her chances against Radwanska. The Russian won their last 2 matches, including a hammering in Wimbledon just 2 months ago. Nevertheless, Radwanska seems to be back in her groove as evidenced by her dismantling of Azarenka. I believe this should be a close match, with Makarova nervous at the prospect of entering a Premier final. I'm going to go with my heart and pick Makarova to cause an upset here to reach her first Premier final.
Pick: Makarova in 3 tight sets
As expected, Serena struggled but eventually subdued Caroline Wozniacki. Can she escape against her sister, Venus Williams? The elder sister has been inspirational throughout the week, fighting her heart out on the court. She knows her smaller sister's game inside out, so that is an advantage that the other players don't have. However, yet another draining 3 setter will definitely put Venus at a disadvantage. Serena always plays her best in big matches, and this is as big as it gets. Venus might pull a set off, but Serena will steady the ship eventually.
Pick: Serena in 3 sets
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Ekaterina Makarova
A surprise semi-final appearance for Makarova here, and she will like her chances against Radwanska. The Russian won their last 2 matches, including a hammering in Wimbledon just 2 months ago. Nevertheless, Radwanska seems to be back in her groove as evidenced by her dismantling of Azarenka. I believe this should be a close match, with Makarova nervous at the prospect of entering a Premier final. I'm going to go with my heart and pick Makarova to cause an upset here to reach her first Premier final.
Pick: Makarova in 3 tight sets
Thursday, 7 August 2014
Montreal QF: Path opens up for Venus
Schedule of play:
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/740/title/rogers-cup
Match focus:
Carla Suarez Navarro vs. Venus Williams
With the massive upsets yesterday, Venus Williams suddenly is the favourite to win here. Carla Suarez Navarro benefitted from a jarringly bad performance from Sharapova, when the Russian really should have lost in straight sets. Venus looks sharp after an upset of her own over Kerber, and looks poised to reach the semi-finals of a Premier event. Let's hope she's not too tired after her long match with Kerber.
Pick: Williams in 2 tight sets
Serena Williams vs. Caroline Wozniacki
Serena was tested against Safarova, but the Czech never had the mental strength to upset the number 1 seed anyway. The American will face a major test against resurgent Caroline Wozniacki, who breezed through her matches barely dropping games. There is no doubt that Serena's game can overpower the Dane. However, Serena will need to be sharp and stingy with her errors. The way Caroline is playing now resembles her peak form from 2011, which will trouble Serena. Let's see how Serena handles her.
Pick: Serena in 3 tight sets
Coco Vandeweghe vs. Ekaterina Makarova
Serbian killer, Coco Vandeweghe surprises everyone by reaching the quarter-finals here. Her big serve suits the hard courts here, and her game is more mature than it was a few years ago. She will face Makarova, who upset Kvitova in another roller coaster match. Seems like consistency will never be Petra's forte. These 2 are quite evenly matched, but Makarova is more experienced on the big stage. The Russian should be the slight favourite here, as Coco had 2 marathon matches in a row.
Pick: Makarova in 3 sets
Victoria Azarenka vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Even though Azarenka owns a commanding lead over Radwanska in their career heads-to-heads, Radwanska dismantled the Belarussian in their last match in Melbourne. Since then, Victoria has never been the same again. Coming back from injury, Victoria seemed to have lost some zip in her shots, and her serve is more inconsistent. Agnieszka will capitalize on that vulnerability and try to slowly even the heads-to-heads. If Azarenka wins this though, it will be her announcement to the world that she is truly back.
Pick: Radwanska in 3 sets
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/740/title/rogers-cup
Match focus:
Carla Suarez Navarro vs. Venus Williams
With the massive upsets yesterday, Venus Williams suddenly is the favourite to win here. Carla Suarez Navarro benefitted from a jarringly bad performance from Sharapova, when the Russian really should have lost in straight sets. Venus looks sharp after an upset of her own over Kerber, and looks poised to reach the semi-finals of a Premier event. Let's hope she's not too tired after her long match with Kerber.
Pick: Williams in 2 tight sets
Serena Williams vs. Caroline Wozniacki
Serena was tested against Safarova, but the Czech never had the mental strength to upset the number 1 seed anyway. The American will face a major test against resurgent Caroline Wozniacki, who breezed through her matches barely dropping games. There is no doubt that Serena's game can overpower the Dane. However, Serena will need to be sharp and stingy with her errors. The way Caroline is playing now resembles her peak form from 2011, which will trouble Serena. Let's see how Serena handles her.
Pick: Serena in 3 tight sets
Coco Vandeweghe vs. Ekaterina Makarova
Serbian killer, Coco Vandeweghe surprises everyone by reaching the quarter-finals here. Her big serve suits the hard courts here, and her game is more mature than it was a few years ago. She will face Makarova, who upset Kvitova in another roller coaster match. Seems like consistency will never be Petra's forte. These 2 are quite evenly matched, but Makarova is more experienced on the big stage. The Russian should be the slight favourite here, as Coco had 2 marathon matches in a row.
Pick: Makarova in 3 sets
Victoria Azarenka vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Even though Azarenka owns a commanding lead over Radwanska in their career heads-to-heads, Radwanska dismantled the Belarussian in their last match in Melbourne. Since then, Victoria has never been the same again. Coming back from injury, Victoria seemed to have lost some zip in her shots, and her serve is more inconsistent. Agnieszka will capitalize on that vulnerability and try to slowly even the heads-to-heads. If Azarenka wins this though, it will be her announcement to the world that she is truly back.
Pick: Radwanska in 3 sets
Montreal day 4: Can Venus cause an upset?
Schedule of play:
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/740/title/rogers-cup
Match focus:
Venus Williams vs. Angelique Kerber
Peak Venus would have owned Kerber easily with her forceful serves and groundstrokes. However, now that Venus is a tad slower and more error-prone, Kerber's game is the perfect strategy to counter Venus. The German's game is scrappy which will induce plenty of errors from Venus. The elder Williams isn't powerful enough to hit her opponents to submission anymore. She will need to rely on a high percentage of first serves to stand a chance. My heart says Venus, but my mind says Kerber.
Pick: Kerber in 2 tight sets
Sabine Lisicki vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Radwanska's recent form has not been good as she's been losing to power hitters who were on. She will face the same trouble here against Lisicki, who can overpower her if she's clicking. Radwanska will need to grind out the points and make Sabine win the point. The German is looking confident at the moment, and could possibly cause an upset here. She has beaten Agnieszka before, so she will be looking to replicate that again.
Pick: Lisicki in 3 sets
Caroline Wozniacki vs. Shelby Rogers
What an upset that Shelby caused by gifting Eugenie Bouchard 2 bagels. Her massive hitting game reminds me of Davenport, and could very well be America's next big hope. Let's see how she fares against Wozniacki, who is playing herself back to form. Caroline is on a winning streak dating back to Istanbul, and will be looking forward to dismantling the powerful American's game. The Dane thrives on pace, so she will be eager to chase down all the balls and make Rogers commit the errors.
Pick: Wozniacki in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Serena Williams, Petra Kvitova, Victoria Azarenka
Upset alert: Agnieszka Radwanska
http://www.wtatennis.com/schedule/tournamentId/740/title/rogers-cup
Match focus:
Venus Williams vs. Angelique Kerber
Peak Venus would have owned Kerber easily with her forceful serves and groundstrokes. However, now that Venus is a tad slower and more error-prone, Kerber's game is the perfect strategy to counter Venus. The German's game is scrappy which will induce plenty of errors from Venus. The elder Williams isn't powerful enough to hit her opponents to submission anymore. She will need to rely on a high percentage of first serves to stand a chance. My heart says Venus, but my mind says Kerber.
Pick: Kerber in 2 tight sets
Sabine Lisicki vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Radwanska's recent form has not been good as she's been losing to power hitters who were on. She will face the same trouble here against Lisicki, who can overpower her if she's clicking. Radwanska will need to grind out the points and make Sabine win the point. The German is looking confident at the moment, and could possibly cause an upset here. She has beaten Agnieszka before, so she will be looking to replicate that again.
Pick: Lisicki in 3 sets
Caroline Wozniacki vs. Shelby Rogers
What an upset that Shelby caused by gifting Eugenie Bouchard 2 bagels. Her massive hitting game reminds me of Davenport, and could very well be America's next big hope. Let's see how she fares against Wozniacki, who is playing herself back to form. Caroline is on a winning streak dating back to Istanbul, and will be looking forward to dismantling the powerful American's game. The Dane thrives on pace, so she will be eager to chase down all the balls and make Rogers commit the errors.
Pick: Wozniacki in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Serena Williams, Petra Kvitova, Victoria Azarenka
Upset alert: Agnieszka Radwanska
Sunday, 6 July 2014
Wimbledon scorecard: GOATra makes rare appearance
A+: Petra Kvitova
I don't think anyone on tour could have survive Kvitova in the final match. Just flawless hitting from the Czech.
A: Venus Williams
Strange to give such a high grade to a 3rd round loser, but she was the closest to defeating Kvitova. Venus went toe to toe with the champion and was 2 points away from victory.
A-: Eugenie Bouchard
Young star was humbled by Kvitova in the finals, but has a lot to be proud of for her first slam final appearance.
B+: Simona Halep
Seems like the only dependable player on tour. Unfortunate injury in her semi-final, but would have been destroyed by Kvitova anyway.
B: Lucie Safarova
Finally advances to her first slam semi-finals after years on tour. Let's see if she can build on this momentum.
B-: Barbora Zahlavova Strycova
Drop shot queen of the tournament, scoring upset wins over Wozniacki and Li Na. Also showing signs of maturity as she's not as animated as before.
C+: Sabine Lisicki
Didn't go all the way to the final this year, but still manages to reach the quarter-finals despite an absolute horrendous year. Now see her fade back into obscurity.
C: Tereza Smitkova
Who? Another Czech who took most of an open draw to reach the last 16. One to watch in the future.
C-: Maria Sharapova
Didn't handle the pressure of being the favourite well, faltered badly against Kerber. Grass is quickly becoming her worst surface.
D: Agnieszka Radwanska
Expected her to make things difficult for Makarova, but just went down meekly. Looks like she'll never win a major.
E: Li Na
Her split with Carlos Rodriguez definitely was a contributing factor, but her weakness was fully exploited by Barbora. At her age, it remains to be seen if she has the motivation to bounce back.
F: Serena Williams
Maybe F is too harsh for Serena, but she came into the tournament all serious and eager to prove the detractors wrong. However, she was just missing for the past 2 slams. Will Serena get back on her feet? Or is there something wrong with her health given that she withdrew under mystifying circumstances?
I don't think anyone on tour could have survive Kvitova in the final match. Just flawless hitting from the Czech.
A: Venus Williams
Strange to give such a high grade to a 3rd round loser, but she was the closest to defeating Kvitova. Venus went toe to toe with the champion and was 2 points away from victory.
A-: Eugenie Bouchard
Young star was humbled by Kvitova in the finals, but has a lot to be proud of for her first slam final appearance.
B+: Simona Halep
Seems like the only dependable player on tour. Unfortunate injury in her semi-final, but would have been destroyed by Kvitova anyway.
B: Lucie Safarova
Finally advances to her first slam semi-finals after years on tour. Let's see if she can build on this momentum.
B-: Barbora Zahlavova Strycova
Drop shot queen of the tournament, scoring upset wins over Wozniacki and Li Na. Also showing signs of maturity as she's not as animated as before.
C+: Sabine Lisicki
Didn't go all the way to the final this year, but still manages to reach the quarter-finals despite an absolute horrendous year. Now see her fade back into obscurity.
C: Tereza Smitkova
Who? Another Czech who took most of an open draw to reach the last 16. One to watch in the future.
C-: Maria Sharapova
Didn't handle the pressure of being the favourite well, faltered badly against Kerber. Grass is quickly becoming her worst surface.
D: Agnieszka Radwanska
Expected her to make things difficult for Makarova, but just went down meekly. Looks like she'll never win a major.
E: Li Na
Her split with Carlos Rodriguez definitely was a contributing factor, but her weakness was fully exploited by Barbora. At her age, it remains to be seen if she has the motivation to bounce back.
F: Serena Williams
Maybe F is too harsh for Serena, but she came into the tournament all serious and eager to prove the detractors wrong. However, she was just missing for the past 2 slams. Will Serena get back on her feet? Or is there something wrong with her health given that she withdrew under mystifying circumstances?
Sunday, 29 June 2014
Wimbledon day 8: Can Bouchard make it 3 in a row
Shock of the tournament:
Alize Cornet def. Serena Williams 1-6 6-3 6-4
Following the exit of Li Na, Serena follows her footsteps in yet another early Grand Slam loss. Serena's powerful game was just missing. Her imposing game which is so effective on grass is gone. Her confidence is shot. Something is wrong and Serena knows it. The American came into the tournament full of confidence and was all serious when talking about her game. This is a major setback for Serena, with her aura of invincibility diminishing. It will be interesting to see how she performs in the US Open series. Let's hope this shocking loss will finally spur her into action.
Schedule of play:
http://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/scores/schedule/index.html
Match focus:
Alize Cornet vs. Eugenie Bouchard
Eugenie Bouchard may become the only player to reach 3 successive slam semi-finals this year with Serena Williams being ousted. Alize Cornet's run is surprising, especially on grass, but Bouchard should be able to take care of the Frenchwoman. Eugenie looks set to taste top 10 success this year with her stellar results so far. She's also living up to the expectations, which not many rising tennis players can claim. I believe she will win this, and make another breakthrough in her young career.
Pick: Bouchard in 2 sets
Angelique Kerber vs. Maria Sharapova
With Serena out of the way, Sharapova suddenly becomes the number 1 favourite to clinch the title. Her transition from clay to grass has been impressive, with her barely losing games so far. Kerber will be a tougher test with her pesky play, but Maria should be up for the task. Angelique's weak serve is begging to be punished on this surface, and Maria will spare her no mercy. All the Russian needs to do is to take care of her own service and she will be fine.
Pick: Sharapova in 2 sets
Petra Kvitova vs. Peng Shuai
Well well, look who's in the second week of a grand slam. Peng Shuai reaches her first 4th round in a Slam since 2012 right her in Wimbledon. This run is surprising especially with her poor form recently and her focus on doubles. Peng has the game to thrive on grass, but her opponent is just even more lethal than her. Kvitova's game is devastating in Wimbledon, and not even the great Venus Williams can stop her. If Petra continues her striking, she might end up winning the title again. Sorry Peng, but a 4th round appearance is good enough.
Pick: Kvitova in 2 sets
Ekaterina Makarova vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Even though Makarova dumped Radwanska out in last year's US Open, I believe Agnieszka is not going to repeat the same mistake this time. Ekaterina has a handy game on grass, but with the courts being slower this year, it give Radwanska the advantage to make Makarova move around the court. Look out for Agnieszka's deft drop shots which has been so effective this year throughout the tournament.
Pick: Radwanska in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Caroline Wozniacki, Lucie Safarova
Alize Cornet def. Serena Williams 1-6 6-3 6-4
Following the exit of Li Na, Serena follows her footsteps in yet another early Grand Slam loss. Serena's powerful game was just missing. Her imposing game which is so effective on grass is gone. Her confidence is shot. Something is wrong and Serena knows it. The American came into the tournament full of confidence and was all serious when talking about her game. This is a major setback for Serena, with her aura of invincibility diminishing. It will be interesting to see how she performs in the US Open series. Let's hope this shocking loss will finally spur her into action.
Schedule of play:
http://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/scores/schedule/index.html
Match focus:
Alize Cornet vs. Eugenie Bouchard
Eugenie Bouchard may become the only player to reach 3 successive slam semi-finals this year with Serena Williams being ousted. Alize Cornet's run is surprising, especially on grass, but Bouchard should be able to take care of the Frenchwoman. Eugenie looks set to taste top 10 success this year with her stellar results so far. She's also living up to the expectations, which not many rising tennis players can claim. I believe she will win this, and make another breakthrough in her young career.
Pick: Bouchard in 2 sets
Angelique Kerber vs. Maria Sharapova
With Serena out of the way, Sharapova suddenly becomes the number 1 favourite to clinch the title. Her transition from clay to grass has been impressive, with her barely losing games so far. Kerber will be a tougher test with her pesky play, but Maria should be up for the task. Angelique's weak serve is begging to be punished on this surface, and Maria will spare her no mercy. All the Russian needs to do is to take care of her own service and she will be fine.
Pick: Sharapova in 2 sets
Petra Kvitova vs. Peng Shuai
Well well, look who's in the second week of a grand slam. Peng Shuai reaches her first 4th round in a Slam since 2012 right her in Wimbledon. This run is surprising especially with her poor form recently and her focus on doubles. Peng has the game to thrive on grass, but her opponent is just even more lethal than her. Kvitova's game is devastating in Wimbledon, and not even the great Venus Williams can stop her. If Petra continues her striking, she might end up winning the title again. Sorry Peng, but a 4th round appearance is good enough.
Pick: Kvitova in 2 sets
Ekaterina Makarova vs. Agnieszka Radwanska
Even though Makarova dumped Radwanska out in last year's US Open, I believe Agnieszka is not going to repeat the same mistake this time. Ekaterina has a handy game on grass, but with the courts being slower this year, it give Radwanska the advantage to make Makarova move around the court. Look out for Agnieszka's deft drop shots which has been so effective this year throughout the tournament.
Pick: Radwanska in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Caroline Wozniacki, Lucie Safarova
Saturday, 7 June 2014
Roland Garros scorecard: Queen of clay, Sharapova
A+: Maria Sharapova
Playing clutch tennis through her last 4 matches, Sharapova showed she had the best mental game on the women's tour despite not playing her best.
A: Simona Halep
Very decent showing from Halep given that this is her first slam final appearance. Definitely a future slam winner.
A-: Eugenie Bouchard
Not a fan of her attitude off court, but Eugenie has some serious game. If only she can mature off court, WTA will have another player to market.
B+: Andrea Petkovic
First slam semi-finals in her career made even sweeter given that she almost retired after her injury. Still, might have a Dementieva career. almost there but never reaching it.
B: Garbine Muguruza
What a showing from the Spaniard, displaying consistent power-hitting, and almost ousting 2 former champions. Clinical in her disposal of Serena Williams.
B-: Carla Suarez Navarro
Nobody can call her a mental giant. Wasted a perfect opportunity to make her first slam semi-finals by choking away leads in the sets that she lost. Needs a sports psychiatrist now.
C+: Pauline Parmentier
French wildcard captured the home crowd's imagination with her inspired play. She has the game, but just no faith in executing it. Hopefully this will give her the confidence to play well for the rest of the year.
C: Kiki Bertens
Out of nowhere, came through from qualifying all the way to the 4th round. Was always a competent player let down by her lack of focus. This run will give her the boost needed to get back on the main tour.
C-: Petra Kvitova
Well, she lost to a better clay court player. However, she fought very hard and almost had the win. Still, losing to Svetlana in a tight match isn't a good sign.
D: Agnieszka Radwanska
A strange and uninspired performance from the Pole. Wasted a perfect opportunity to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
E: Serena Williams
She was outplayed and out hit by Garbine, who just couldn't miss. Normally, Serena would have fought her heart out, but a flat performance gave her her earliest exit in a slam after her infamous flop against Razzano.
F: Li Na
No excuses for the Chinese. Precisely what she said, she would have lost to anyone who was standing across the net. Horrific performance.
Playing clutch tennis through her last 4 matches, Sharapova showed she had the best mental game on the women's tour despite not playing her best.
A: Simona Halep
Very decent showing from Halep given that this is her first slam final appearance. Definitely a future slam winner.
A-: Eugenie Bouchard
Not a fan of her attitude off court, but Eugenie has some serious game. If only she can mature off court, WTA will have another player to market.
B+: Andrea Petkovic
First slam semi-finals in her career made even sweeter given that she almost retired after her injury. Still, might have a Dementieva career. almost there but never reaching it.
B: Garbine Muguruza
What a showing from the Spaniard, displaying consistent power-hitting, and almost ousting 2 former champions. Clinical in her disposal of Serena Williams.
B-: Carla Suarez Navarro
Nobody can call her a mental giant. Wasted a perfect opportunity to make her first slam semi-finals by choking away leads in the sets that she lost. Needs a sports psychiatrist now.
C+: Pauline Parmentier
French wildcard captured the home crowd's imagination with her inspired play. She has the game, but just no faith in executing it. Hopefully this will give her the confidence to play well for the rest of the year.
C: Kiki Bertens
Out of nowhere, came through from qualifying all the way to the 4th round. Was always a competent player let down by her lack of focus. This run will give her the boost needed to get back on the main tour.
C-: Petra Kvitova
Well, she lost to a better clay court player. However, she fought very hard and almost had the win. Still, losing to Svetlana in a tight match isn't a good sign.
D: Agnieszka Radwanska
A strange and uninspired performance from the Pole. Wasted a perfect opportunity to reach the semi-finals of the tournament.
E: Serena Williams
She was outplayed and out hit by Garbine, who just couldn't miss. Normally, Serena would have fought her heart out, but a flat performance gave her her earliest exit in a slam after her infamous flop against Razzano.
F: Li Na
No excuses for the Chinese. Precisely what she said, she would have lost to anyone who was standing across the net. Horrific performance.
Saturday, 24 May 2014
Roland Garros day 1: Veterans still have the edge
Roland Garros schedule of play:
http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/scores/schedule/index.html
Match focus:
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Zhang Shuai
Radwanska faces the highest ranked player who's not seeded, but she shouldn't worry. Zhang's game doesn't suit clay and Radwanska should be able to get the job done in second gear. The Chinese had a good run in Rome, but it was due to the incompetence of Kvitova that led her there. Looks like the Chinese's losing streak in Grand Slams is set to continue here.
Pick: Radwanska in 2 sets
Belinda Bencic vs. Venus Williams
Belinda Bencic sets up an intriguing match against Venus Williams, as she tries to prove to the world that she can beat quality players consistently. Venus didn't play much in preparation for Paris, and lost to Suarez Navarro in Rome. She will be eager to peak here against Bencic, who is still rather young to be winning these type of big matches. Venus just needs to keep herself healthy for the whole match. Bencic can claim a set, but Venus will emerge to winner (if she stays healthy).
Pick: Venus Williams in 2 sets
Ajla Tomljanovic vs. Francesca Schiavone
Former champion Schiavone is at risk of going out in her opening round against the upcoming Tomljanovic. The Croatian has been enjoying her best year on tour, and is playing with no points to defend. Francesca loves this event though, having won here in 2010 and reaching the finals in 2011, so she will fight to the bitter end. Ajla's game is not really clay court tennis, so the advantage goes to Schiavone. The deciding factor will be the Italian's stamina. Let's hope Francesca doesn't run out of gas.
Pick: Schiavone in 2 tight sets
Daniela Hantuchova vs. Jovana Jaksic
Daniela is not enjoying her best tennis, bounced out of warm up clay events by lesser known opponents. It remains to be seen if the younger Jaksic can defeat the experience Slovak, but I doubt so. Daniela is picking her tournaments wisely and looks to peak in the bigger events. Jovana's game is pretty raw, so Daniela is at an advantage here. She just needs to play aggressive and smart tennis and not go for the kill too early. Jovana still has a lot of maturing to do in my opinion.
Pick: Hantuchova in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Serena Williams, Yvonne Meusburger, Angelique Kerber, Carla Suarez Navarro, Garbine Muguruza
Upset alert: Varvara Lepchenko, Tsvetana Pironkova, Maria Kirilenko, Olga Govortsova, Kaia Kanepi
http://www.rolandgarros.com/en_FR/scores/schedule/index.html
Match focus:
Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Zhang Shuai
Radwanska faces the highest ranked player who's not seeded, but she shouldn't worry. Zhang's game doesn't suit clay and Radwanska should be able to get the job done in second gear. The Chinese had a good run in Rome, but it was due to the incompetence of Kvitova that led her there. Looks like the Chinese's losing streak in Grand Slams is set to continue here.
Pick: Radwanska in 2 sets
Belinda Bencic vs. Venus Williams
Belinda Bencic sets up an intriguing match against Venus Williams, as she tries to prove to the world that she can beat quality players consistently. Venus didn't play much in preparation for Paris, and lost to Suarez Navarro in Rome. She will be eager to peak here against Bencic, who is still rather young to be winning these type of big matches. Venus just needs to keep herself healthy for the whole match. Bencic can claim a set, but Venus will emerge to winner (if she stays healthy).
Pick: Venus Williams in 2 sets
Ajla Tomljanovic vs. Francesca Schiavone
Former champion Schiavone is at risk of going out in her opening round against the upcoming Tomljanovic. The Croatian has been enjoying her best year on tour, and is playing with no points to defend. Francesca loves this event though, having won here in 2010 and reaching the finals in 2011, so she will fight to the bitter end. Ajla's game is not really clay court tennis, so the advantage goes to Schiavone. The deciding factor will be the Italian's stamina. Let's hope Francesca doesn't run out of gas.
Pick: Schiavone in 2 tight sets
Daniela Hantuchova vs. Jovana Jaksic
Daniela is not enjoying her best tennis, bounced out of warm up clay events by lesser known opponents. It remains to be seen if the younger Jaksic can defeat the experience Slovak, but I doubt so. Daniela is picking her tournaments wisely and looks to peak in the bigger events. Jovana's game is pretty raw, so Daniela is at an advantage here. She just needs to play aggressive and smart tennis and not go for the kill too early. Jovana still has a lot of maturing to do in my opinion.
Pick: Hantuchova in 2 sets
Sure win bets: Serena Williams, Yvonne Meusburger, Angelique Kerber, Carla Suarez Navarro, Garbine Muguruza
Upset alert: Varvara Lepchenko, Tsvetana Pironkova, Maria Kirilenko, Olga Govortsova, Kaia Kanepi
Roland Garros Preview: Can Sharapova wreck the Serena party?
Going into the French Open, we have 2 clear favourites, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova. It's an absolute pity that these 2 are drawn in the same quarter, but it makes for an exciting quarter-final match. Let's take a look at the top 5 contenders for this year's Roland Garros.
1. Serena Williams
Although she suffered a shock loss in Charleston and withdrew from Madrid, Serena righted the ship in Rome when she claimed the title, losing only a set along the way. Already leading the tour with 3 titles, Serena goes into Paris as the hot favourite again, leaving her closest competitors behind. The only problem Serena faces is staying healthy throughout the fortnight. She was bothered by her back in Melbourne, and her thigh in Madrid. If she can stay healthy, I cannot see anyone stopping the American.
2. Maria Sharapova
3 clay court events, 2 titles. Not too shabby for someone who was struggling to win matches in the beginning of the year. Sharapova summons back her clay form as she successfully defends majority of her points going into Paris. Still, a cruel draw will have to see her defeat Serena Williams in the quarter-finals to have another chance at winning the title. Nevertheless, Sharapova is the clear 2nd favourite in the draw, and an upset of Serena (not by Maria of course) will propel Sharapova as the top favourite. Maria needs to pray hard that someone beats Serena before she faces her though.
3. Ana Ivanovic
Look who's back! Ana Ivanovic turns back the hands of time and is playing like her fearless 2008 self. She is the only player to take a set of Serena in Rome, and is consistently reaching the latter stages of tournaments. She is in an unfortunate section of the draw though, as she needs to overcome Simona Halep if she wants to advance beyond the quarter-finals (I'm not counting Kvitova as she's almost a non-factor). There's hope for Ana though, with Simona having to deal with some niggles and pains in Rome. If Ana can learn from her recent defeat against Simona (she already beat Halep in Fed Cup), I think she has the potential to reach the finals.
4. Simona Halep
The maturing Simona Halep proves that her game can translate well to any surface with a final appearance in Madrid. What impressed me with Simona is that she doesn't panic, goes around doing what's she good at. Even though Sharapova showed that Halep can be overpowered, it only takes a player to have an off day for Simona to claim the win. Now at her highest ranking of 4, the future is bright for Simona. With almost nothing to defend here, the Romanian looks set to climb greater heights.
5. Agnieszka Radwanska
I'm picking Radwanska over former champion Li Na as the Pole will almost be assured of a semi-final place with her soft draw. Compared to the volatile Li who has a tougher route, Radwanska will have a no nonsense passage to the semi-finals. Even though her path will probably end there in the hands of Sharapova or Serena, there's no taking away the most consistent clay court season that she has played in her career. Agnieszka has only lost to quality opponents this clay court season, and will bode well for her grass court swing after this.
1. Serena Williams
Although she suffered a shock loss in Charleston and withdrew from Madrid, Serena righted the ship in Rome when she claimed the title, losing only a set along the way. Already leading the tour with 3 titles, Serena goes into Paris as the hot favourite again, leaving her closest competitors behind. The only problem Serena faces is staying healthy throughout the fortnight. She was bothered by her back in Melbourne, and her thigh in Madrid. If she can stay healthy, I cannot see anyone stopping the American.
2. Maria Sharapova
3 clay court events, 2 titles. Not too shabby for someone who was struggling to win matches in the beginning of the year. Sharapova summons back her clay form as she successfully defends majority of her points going into Paris. Still, a cruel draw will have to see her defeat Serena Williams in the quarter-finals to have another chance at winning the title. Nevertheless, Sharapova is the clear 2nd favourite in the draw, and an upset of Serena (not by Maria of course) will propel Sharapova as the top favourite. Maria needs to pray hard that someone beats Serena before she faces her though.
3. Ana Ivanovic
Look who's back! Ana Ivanovic turns back the hands of time and is playing like her fearless 2008 self. She is the only player to take a set of Serena in Rome, and is consistently reaching the latter stages of tournaments. She is in an unfortunate section of the draw though, as she needs to overcome Simona Halep if she wants to advance beyond the quarter-finals (I'm not counting Kvitova as she's almost a non-factor). There's hope for Ana though, with Simona having to deal with some niggles and pains in Rome. If Ana can learn from her recent defeat against Simona (she already beat Halep in Fed Cup), I think she has the potential to reach the finals.
4. Simona Halep
The maturing Simona Halep proves that her game can translate well to any surface with a final appearance in Madrid. What impressed me with Simona is that she doesn't panic, goes around doing what's she good at. Even though Sharapova showed that Halep can be overpowered, it only takes a player to have an off day for Simona to claim the win. Now at her highest ranking of 4, the future is bright for Simona. With almost nothing to defend here, the Romanian looks set to climb greater heights.
5. Agnieszka Radwanska
I'm picking Radwanska over former champion Li Na as the Pole will almost be assured of a semi-final place with her soft draw. Compared to the volatile Li who has a tougher route, Radwanska will have a no nonsense passage to the semi-finals. Even though her path will probably end there in the hands of Sharapova or Serena, there's no taking away the most consistent clay court season that she has played in her career. Agnieszka has only lost to quality opponents this clay court season, and will bode well for her grass court swing after this.
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