Quarterfinal Scores:
(1) Novak Djokovic d. (9) Marin Cilic 6-4, 6-4, 6-4
(21) Richard Gasquet d. (4) Stan Wawrinka 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, 6-4, 11-9
(3) Andy Murray d. Vasek Pospisil 6-4, 7-5, 6-4
(2) Roger Federer d. Gilles Simon 6-3, 7-5, 6-2
(21) Richard Gasquet vs. (1) Novak Djokovic
Gasquet is in his second career Wimbledon semifinal after edging out Wawrinka in the best match of the tournament, and one of the best in Wimbledon history. He's peaking at the right time and is looking confident. He looks as if he's regained his 2013 form that saw him reach the 2013 U.S. Open and finish inside the top 10 in the world.
Djokovic looks like he cleaned up his game in the straight sets defeat of Cilic in the quarterfinals. There wasn't a lot he did wrong and looks to be in great shape heading into this matchup.
Djokovic has owned Gasquet all-time with an 11-1 advantage, with Gasquet's lone victory coming in the Tennis Masters Cup in 2007.
Gasquet has done a great job getting to this point, but I don't feel he has enough to beat the steady Djokovic.
If he's to win, Gasquet has to go for broke and punish Nole with the one handed backhand like Wawrinka did at the French Open. Gasquet doesn't have the best serve in the world, but he needs to do everything he can to hold serve and put pressure on Nole's serve.
For Djokovic, he will look to stay sharp with his hard and flat groundstrokes and push Gasquet around the court. He can't afford to let Gasquet get into a rhythm.
I thought he fell in love with the drop shot a little too much at the French Open, but as long as he uses it sparingly, it should help him in this matchup.
In the end, I don't think Gasquet will have the weapons to pull it out. However, as long as he has a "nothing to lose" attitude and goes for his shots, he can turn this into an interesting match.
(3) Andy Murray vs. (2) Roger Federer
This will be the 23rd meeting head-to-head for both players. Federer holds a slim 12-11 advantage, but Federer has won the past three meetings, and has a 4-1 lead in meetings at the majors. They've both split their two meetings on grass. Federer won the first matchup in the 2012 Wimbledon final 4-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-4. A few weeks later, Murray returned the favor by winning 6-2, 6-1, 6-4.
The same thing I said in the preview of the quarterfinal matches applies here as well. Murray cannot and must not become defensive. If he does, he's toast. He needs to feed off the hyped crowd and the home court advantage he possesses.
He needs to try to make the match physical and wear Federer down. At this stage of his career, if this match goes the distance (and assuming there aren't any lopsided sets like 6-0 or 6-1), I like Murray's chances.
Murray also needs to attack Federer's second serve and be able to make the passing shots when Federer approaches the net.
Murray also has a tendency to let his emotions get the best of him, at times. For him to win, he needs to accept some things won't go his way and Federer will make unbelievable shots. He must focus on the task at hand and put the bad thoughts and moments behind im.
Federer wants to shorten the match, and show why he's one of the greatest servers of all-time. Andy Roddick served the ball harder than Federer, but Federer is a master at hitting his spots.
Federer needs to be precise and attack with shots from both wings. He possesses all the shots in the arsenal with the lethal slices, drop shots, serve, forehand, and backhand.
He will also need to attack Murray's second serve. In his round of 16 match with Karlovic, Murray hit second serves clocked at 80 and 84 mph.
Can "FedEx" take out Murray in either three or four sets? Can Murray keep his emotions in check? Will Murray play the aggressive style of tennis required to beat the "Swiss Maestro", especially on grass?
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
2015 Wimbledon Women's Semifinal Preview
Quarterfinal Scores
(1) Serena Williams d. (23) Victoria Azarenka 3-6, 6-2, 6-3
(4) Maria Sharapova d. Coco Vandeweghe 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-2
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (15) Timea Baczinsky 7-5, 6-3
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska d. (21) Madison Keys 7-6(3), 3-6, 6-3
Semifinal Matches:
(1) Serena Williams vs. (4) Maria Sharapova
It's well documented of Serena's dominance over Sharapova. Not only has Serena won 16 matches in a row (dating back to 2005), but she's only lost three sets to Sharapova. In fact, I was a freshman in college in 2004, when Sharapova last defeated Serena.
I've said it before and I've said it again. When Serena is on, there isn't a lot anyone can do to stop her. What's funny is Serena seems to always play her best against Sharapova as if she's proving a point. With Serena's lofty and amazing credentials, she doesn't need to prove anything to anyone, but I'd like to provide a case in point. Serena lost to Alize Cornet in all three meetings last year, but has routinely dispatched Sharapova, and in relative ease in some cases. I don't mean to disrespect Cornet. She's a good player, but how else can you explain it? I understand the concept about matchups. Different players will pose different problems for players. This is true, but Cornet doesn't have the weapons to really hurt Serena.
Serena is always up to facing Sharapova. It seems she gets a thrill of not just winning titles, but denying Sharapova from winning. It's as if she says if she loses to anyone, it won't be her.
With that being said, this match is Serena's to lose. We've seen players getting inside other player's heads before. Djokovic got inside Nadal's head in 2011 before Rafa turned it around in 2012. Before that, Nadal has gotten inside Federer's head, especially after their classic Wimbleon battle in 2008.
Even though they've played on grass since Sharapova notched the massive upset in the 2004 Wimbledon final, Serena will still remember that feeling of losing to her vividly. Serena remembered when she beat Sharapova in the round of 16 at SW19 in 2010, and when she embarrassed Sharapova in the Olympic final that saw her win only one game in 2012.
Despite her dominance over Sharapova, she knows not to take anything for granted.
Sharapova, despite her aggressive game, doesn't have the weapons to hurt Serena. Serena does everything better: serving, defense and movement, volleying, and finesse (i.e. drop shots and slices).
For Sharapova, her only hope will be to make Serena generate her own pace with slices and try to bring her in with drop shots so she can set up the passing shots. She's learned that trying to go toe-to-toe from the baseline is a bad idea.
For Serena, she needs to make Sharapova feel the pressure. Sharapova has hit 11 winners, but has double faulted 28 times. Serena must take advantage of these free points.
Serena also needs to expose Sharapova's game. She should throw in a few slices to make her generate her own pace and to use her 6-foot-2 inch frame to reach for the low balls. She needs to expose her movement by running her around from side to side on the court and hitting a few drop shots.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska vs. (20) Garbine Muguruza
Radwanska is on a renaissance of sorts. She's taken full advantage of Kvitova's loss to make an improbable run at SW19. She needs to remain steady and remember she's the veteran and to minimize the unforced errors.
Muguruza is in her first career major semifinal. Will the nerves get to her on this occasion? We saw how poorly Sabine Lisicki handled the Wimbledon final two years ago in a loss against Marion Bartoli.
Muguruza needs to remain aggressive and go for her shots. If Radwanska leaves any balls short, she must pounce.
Radwanska is a counterpuncher by nature. She needs to be a little more aggressive in this matchup because Muguruza can overwhelm her with her power.
In the end, we will see who will hold their nerves better. Muguruza is talented, but has developed into a consistent force, yet. Radwanska, while having a down year, has been around and was known for her consistency before this season.
The fast grass courts should favor Muguruza's aggressive offense instead of Radwanska's defensiveness. However, this is a toss-up. It will probably go to three sets, but we will see who is able to impose their will on the other. If Radwanska, can become aggressive, she will win. However, if Muguruza comes out firing and is able to dictate play, I will like her chances.
(1) Serena Williams d. (23) Victoria Azarenka 3-6, 6-2, 6-3
(4) Maria Sharapova d. Coco Vandeweghe 6-3, 6-7(3), 6-2
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (15) Timea Baczinsky 7-5, 6-3
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska d. (21) Madison Keys 7-6(3), 3-6, 6-3
Semifinal Matches:
(1) Serena Williams vs. (4) Maria Sharapova
It's well documented of Serena's dominance over Sharapova. Not only has Serena won 16 matches in a row (dating back to 2005), but she's only lost three sets to Sharapova. In fact, I was a freshman in college in 2004, when Sharapova last defeated Serena.
I've said it before and I've said it again. When Serena is on, there isn't a lot anyone can do to stop her. What's funny is Serena seems to always play her best against Sharapova as if she's proving a point. With Serena's lofty and amazing credentials, she doesn't need to prove anything to anyone, but I'd like to provide a case in point. Serena lost to Alize Cornet in all three meetings last year, but has routinely dispatched Sharapova, and in relative ease in some cases. I don't mean to disrespect Cornet. She's a good player, but how else can you explain it? I understand the concept about matchups. Different players will pose different problems for players. This is true, but Cornet doesn't have the weapons to really hurt Serena.
Serena is always up to facing Sharapova. It seems she gets a thrill of not just winning titles, but denying Sharapova from winning. It's as if she says if she loses to anyone, it won't be her.
With that being said, this match is Serena's to lose. We've seen players getting inside other player's heads before. Djokovic got inside Nadal's head in 2011 before Rafa turned it around in 2012. Before that, Nadal has gotten inside Federer's head, especially after their classic Wimbleon battle in 2008.
Even though they've played on grass since Sharapova notched the massive upset in the 2004 Wimbledon final, Serena will still remember that feeling of losing to her vividly. Serena remembered when she beat Sharapova in the round of 16 at SW19 in 2010, and when she embarrassed Sharapova in the Olympic final that saw her win only one game in 2012.
Despite her dominance over Sharapova, she knows not to take anything for granted.
Sharapova, despite her aggressive game, doesn't have the weapons to hurt Serena. Serena does everything better: serving, defense and movement, volleying, and finesse (i.e. drop shots and slices).
For Sharapova, her only hope will be to make Serena generate her own pace with slices and try to bring her in with drop shots so she can set up the passing shots. She's learned that trying to go toe-to-toe from the baseline is a bad idea.
For Serena, she needs to make Sharapova feel the pressure. Sharapova has hit 11 winners, but has double faulted 28 times. Serena must take advantage of these free points.
Serena also needs to expose Sharapova's game. She should throw in a few slices to make her generate her own pace and to use her 6-foot-2 inch frame to reach for the low balls. She needs to expose her movement by running her around from side to side on the court and hitting a few drop shots.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska vs. (20) Garbine Muguruza
Radwanska is on a renaissance of sorts. She's taken full advantage of Kvitova's loss to make an improbable run at SW19. She needs to remain steady and remember she's the veteran and to minimize the unforced errors.
Muguruza is in her first career major semifinal. Will the nerves get to her on this occasion? We saw how poorly Sabine Lisicki handled the Wimbledon final two years ago in a loss against Marion Bartoli.
Muguruza needs to remain aggressive and go for her shots. If Radwanska leaves any balls short, she must pounce.
Radwanska is a counterpuncher by nature. She needs to be a little more aggressive in this matchup because Muguruza can overwhelm her with her power.
In the end, we will see who will hold their nerves better. Muguruza is talented, but has developed into a consistent force, yet. Radwanska, while having a down year, has been around and was known for her consistency before this season.
The fast grass courts should favor Muguruza's aggressive offense instead of Radwanska's defensiveness. However, this is a toss-up. It will probably go to three sets, but we will see who is able to impose their will on the other. If Radwanska, can become aggressive, she will win. However, if Muguruza comes out firing and is able to dictate play, I will like her chances.
2015 Wimbledon Men's Quarterfinal Preview
Men's Quarterfinals:
(1) Novak Djokovic vs. (9) Marin Cilic
The number one player in the world survived a stern test from (14) Kevin Anderson by coming back from a two sets to love deficit.
Cilic survived a 12-10 fifth set in the round over the "Marathon Man" John Isner.
These two played last year with Djokovic coming back two sets to one down.
Cilic is the type of player that blows hot and cold. You expect him to make a deep run to the quarterfinals or semifinals, but loses in the first or second round. He receives a dangerous opponent in the first round, but makes a deep run.
Cilic was regaining his form after missing nearly a year due to a suspension. This time, his form has been lacking, but he deserves credit for making it this far.
Cilic's coach, Goran Ivanisevic, deserves a lot of credit for helping the 6-foot-6 Cilic amp up his serve. This slight adjustment helped him win his first major title at the U.S. Open last year. Unfortunately, Djokovic is the best returner in the game today.
I don't see an upset here. Cilic will do well to get a set and make it competitive, kind of what Grigor Dimitrov did against Djokovic last year. But then again, I didn't think Anderson could have Nole on the brink of elimination either.
I don't see Cilic breaking Djokovic's serve a lot. For him, his best chance will be taking a page out of Anderson's book and beating him in tiebreakers.
For Djokovic, this is where coach Boris Becker earns his money. Becker, a three time Wimbledon champion, knows exactly what he's going through. Djokovic will look to punish Cilic with his lethal groundstrokes and mix in a little bit of volleying to keep him guessing.
Djokovic doesn't seem as distracted by his crushing French Open loss as I thought he might've been. Nevertheless, if Cilic can somehow, someway, regain his top form, this could be an interesting match.
(4) Stan Wawrinka vs. (21) Richard Gasquet
This match will display the best one-handed backhands in the game today. Gasquet has done well to get to this point in the tournament. He's beaten a struggling Dimitrov and a dangerous, but inconsistent Kyrgios to reach this point.
Wawrinka's previous career best a Wimbledon was a quarterfinal appearance last year. He looks to be in good shape to go further this year.
Gasquet has played very well in this tournament and looks to be peaking at the right time. Still, there's a reason why Wawrinka has won two career major titles, despite his inconsistencies.
Stan the Man has yet to drop a set so far. His aggressive game and hard, flat groundstrokes (especially on the backhand side) is paying off on the quick grass surface. He uses it to bully his opponents on the court and not allowing them to get into a rhythm.
For Gasquet, he needs Wawrinka to bring his "B" game or lower. If Wawrinka bring his "A" game, there won't be a lot he can do to hurt him. Still, Gasquet needs to dictate play and stay away from Wawrinka's lethal backhand. As good as Gasquet's backhand is, Wawrinka's is clearly better.
Vasek Posipil vs. (3) Andy Murray
Pospisil has been a benefactor of (8) David Ferrer's withdraw and (10) Rafael Nadal's second round loss. Nevertheless, he's beaten the guys he's had to play (including seeded players Fognini and Troicki), and he should be commended for it.
Pospisil has a nice serve, but it's not as good as Ivo Karlovic's. Karlovic was able to use his serve and an aggressive offensive approach to cause a host of problems for Murray. Karlovic hit a whopping 29 aces (with only four double faults), and 75 winners (to only 32 unforced errors). Karlovic's demise was his poor return game (he broke only once out five tries) and a poor net game in which he won only 46/106 (43%) points won at the net.
For Pospisil to have a chance, he will need to be aggressive, like Karlovic, but do a better job attacking Murray's serve and doing a lot better at the net.
Murray will be the overwhelming favorite in front of his home crowd. Still, Pospisil doesn't really have the weapons to hurt Murray. The key for Murray is to not get too defensive. There are certain times in a match when Murray, especially when he's feeling pressure (i.e. down break point or set point), gets too defensive and allows his opponents to push him around on the court. Of course, when playing the likes of Djokovic or Federer, this usually spells trouble, but Pospisil is no where near those two players' level.
(12) Gilles Simon vs. (2) Roger Federer
Simon, who routinely dispatched (6) Tomas Berdych in a straight sets upset in the round of 16, is only in his second career major quarterfinal and his best career result at SW19.
Simon only sports a career 2-5 record versus "FedEx", and hasn't beaten him since the pair's first two meetings in Canada and the Tennis Masters Cup (now known as the ATP World Tour Finals) in 2008. Still, he's taken Federer to five sets in both of their career meetings in majors (2011 Australian Open and 2013 French Open). In their last meeting, Federer needed a pair of tiebreakers (7-6 (6),7-6(2)) to beat him in the finals in Shanghai.
Oddly, this is the first career meeting on grass for the Frenchman and Swiss maestro.
Simon seems like a consistent guy, who won't overwhelm anyone with power, but will not go away. Although he doesn't crush the ball, he's accurate with his groundstrokes.
Federer, who's looking to prove he can win majors at nearly 34 years of age, has all the pressure on his shoulders in this match. Federer is one of the best players at dealing with pressure. So, that shouldn't be a problem.
Simon's problem is he's too defensive. He will need to get out of his comfort zone and push Federer around the court. This is a big ask for him, and it will be harder for him to do it in a best of five sets format.
However, at his advanced age, the last thing Federer wants is to spend four or five hours a five set battle. We've seen what these types of battles have done to him in recent years. He won't have anything left in the tank. At the U.S. Open last year, he survived Gael Monfils by coming back down two sets to win only to be destroyed by the eventual champion, Cilic in straight sets. The Olympic format uses a best two out three format leading to final. He edged out Juan Martin del Potro in a vicious 19-17 third set battle, but was dismantled by Murray in the final.
Federer will look to keep the points short and not get into too many long rallies. He does a good job of attacking the net and mixing in serve and volleying throughout his matches.
Simon will need to be ready to pass Federer and make him pay whenever he comes in to the net.
Monday, July 6, 2015
2015 Wimbledon Round of 16 Review and Women's Quarterfinals Preview
Round of 16 Scores:
Men's
(1) Novak Djokovic vs. (14) Kevin Anderson 6-7(8), 6-7(8), 6-1, 7-5
(9) Marin Cilic d. (WC) Denis Kudla 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5
(4) Stan Wawrinka d. (16) David Goffin 7-6(3), 7-6(7), 6-4
(21) Richard Gasquet d. (26) Nick Kyrgios 7-5, 6-1, 6-7(7), 7-6(6)
Vasek Pospisil d. (22) Viktor Troicki 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-3, 6-3
(3) Andy Murray d. (23) Ivo Karlovic 7-6(7), 6-4, 5-7, 6-4
(12) Gilles Simon d. (6) Tomas Berdych 6-3, 6-3, 6-2
(2) Roger Federer vs. (20) Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2, 6-2, 6-3
Women's
(1) Serena Williams d. (16) Venus Williams 6-4, 6-3
(23) Victoria Azarenka d. (30) Belinda Bencic 6-2, 6-3
(4) Maria Sharapova d. Zarina Diyas 6-4, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (6) Lucie Safarova 7-6(1), 7-6(4)
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (5) Caroline Wozniacki 6-4, 6-4
(15) Timea Baczinsky d. Monica Niculescu 1-6, 7-5, 6-2
(21) Madison Keys d. (Q) Olga Govortsova 3-6, 6-4, 6-1
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska d. (28) Jelena Jankovic 7-5, 6-4
Women's Quarterfinals Preview
(1) Serena Williams vs. (23) Victoria Azarenka
Serena holds a 16-3 lifetime record versus Azarenka, including a 3-0 record on grass. The last time they faced each other on the surface, Serena routed Azarenka 6-1, 6-2 in the semifinals at the 2012 Olympics (held at Wimbledon).
Azarenka has given Serena all she could handle in three sets in Madrid and the French Open over the past couple of months. However, that was clay.
Azarenka has the power to give Serena trouble with her hard groundstrokes. More than any other player, she needs to limit the unforced errors and double faults. As great of a player Serena is, the last thing Vika needs is to give away free games.
Serena clicked on all cylinders in her round of 16 defeat of Venus. She played a near flawless match that saw her commit only 26 winners and 13 unforced errors. When Serena plays at that level, there isn't anyone on the planet who could beat her.
With such a short turnaround, it will help Serena that she defeated her big sister in straight sets. The last thing she needed was for a nearly three hour battle and to play the following day on short fuel.
There won't be any secrets between the two players. They both bring out the best in each other. They both know what they need to do to win, but in the end, I like Serena to win this match. Despite Serena's mind boggling lapses at times, she is still too consistent.
It will be tough for Vika to return against the greatest serve in the history of the women's game on grass. Plus, Serena possesses an all-around game with her serve, defense, and groundstrokes.
This match will go three sets, but Serena will prevail.
(4) Maria Sharapova vs. Coco Vandeweghe
Vandeweghe has beaten three consecutive seeded players at SW19, but can she make it four?
Vandeweghe and Sharapova will be a battle of power. The question is which person will be able to dictate play and impose her will on the other?
Vandeweghe has gotten free points off her serve at this tournament. In order to beat Sharapova, she will need to keep getting free points. Honestly, I don't know how things will go if she tries to trade blows with Sharapova from the baseline.
Vandeweghe has done a good job of mixing up her serves and speeds to keep the returner off balance. She will need to mix in a dose of slices to keep the ball low on Sharapova to make her generate her own pace and to make her bend low to hit the balls.
For Sharapova, all the pressure will be on her. To borrow a line from Kevin Smith's Clerks, in which Dante (Brian O'Halloran) constantly reminds viewers, "I'm not even supposed to be here today".
Sharapova will need to use her experience to get her through the match. She will need to use her consistency in this match. Vandeweghe is playing the best tennis of her life, but hasn't been able to prove it on a consistant basis.
Sharapova will look to dictate play to push Vandeweghe around from side to side and to try to wear her down over the course of the match.
(20) Garbine Muguruza vs. (15) Timea Baczinsky
Baczinsky is looking to build on her best year on the WTA and a run to the semifinals at the French Open.
Muguruza, while inconsistent, has proven to cause headaches when she's on her game.
Muguruza's aggressive offensive game has translated very well to grass. She will need to remain focused and to play on her terms.
Baczinsky, who could be a winner of both the Comeback and Most Improved Player awards, has been shown nice consistency on the WTA tour this year. Baczinsky looks to have the sort of game that translates all surfaces.
You just don't know what you'll get from Muguruza. If she plays up to her capabilities, this match could be one of the best matches of the year. If not, Baczinsky could win the match within one hour.
(21) Madison Keys vs. (13) Agnieszka Radwanska
The addition of Lindsay Davenport to her team is one of the best things to happen to Keys. She has given her a belief and confidence to take her game to the next level. Keys is looking to advance to her second major semifinal this year.
Keys has benefited from a pair of upsets in her section, but deserves credit for handling her business and advancing.
Radwanska has a huge opportunity to rectify a dismal season thus far. However, she's looking to turn a corner and a win over Keys could put her one win away from reaching her second career Wimbledon semifinal.
In the past, I would have given Radwanska a clear cut advantage because of her consistency. But, she's lost that edge this year and all bets are off.
Keys possesses a the type of aggressive game with a huge serve and big groundstrokes to win a few Wimbledon titles in her career. She's only 20 years old, but like others I've mentioned, needs to consistently do it.
Radwanska won't wow anyone with power, but is more of a finesse type of player who gets a lot of balls in play. She does a good job of making players hit the one extra ball that could be an unforced error.
On track record alone, I would give Radwanska the edge. However, with her drop in form, this will be a very close match. Which player will be more consistent? Keys has been known to play well in one set, but lose focus and intensity in the next set.
Keys has been able to get a little more match play on grass by playing doubles with Laura Robson and mixed doubles with fellow young gun, Nick Kyrgios. Will this extra play affect her energy level or give her more confidence?
In a bit of a contrast of styles, we will see which wins out: Radwanska's finesse or Keys' power?
Men's
(1) Novak Djokovic vs. (14) Kevin Anderson 6-7(8), 6-7(8), 6-1, 7-5
(9) Marin Cilic d. (WC) Denis Kudla 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 7-5
(4) Stan Wawrinka d. (16) David Goffin 7-6(3), 7-6(7), 6-4
(21) Richard Gasquet d. (26) Nick Kyrgios 7-5, 6-1, 6-7(7), 7-6(6)
Vasek Pospisil d. (22) Viktor Troicki 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 6-3, 6-3
(3) Andy Murray d. (23) Ivo Karlovic 7-6(7), 6-4, 5-7, 6-4
(12) Gilles Simon d. (6) Tomas Berdych 6-3, 6-3, 6-2
(2) Roger Federer vs. (20) Roberto Bautista Agut 6-2, 6-2, 6-3
Women's
(1) Serena Williams d. (16) Venus Williams 6-4, 6-3
(23) Victoria Azarenka d. (30) Belinda Bencic 6-2, 6-3
(4) Maria Sharapova d. Zarina Diyas 6-4, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (6) Lucie Safarova 7-6(1), 7-6(4)
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (5) Caroline Wozniacki 6-4, 6-4
(15) Timea Baczinsky d. Monica Niculescu 1-6, 7-5, 6-2
(21) Madison Keys d. (Q) Olga Govortsova 3-6, 6-4, 6-1
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska d. (28) Jelena Jankovic 7-5, 6-4
Women's Quarterfinals Preview
(1) Serena Williams vs. (23) Victoria Azarenka
Serena holds a 16-3 lifetime record versus Azarenka, including a 3-0 record on grass. The last time they faced each other on the surface, Serena routed Azarenka 6-1, 6-2 in the semifinals at the 2012 Olympics (held at Wimbledon).
Azarenka has given Serena all she could handle in three sets in Madrid and the French Open over the past couple of months. However, that was clay.
Azarenka has the power to give Serena trouble with her hard groundstrokes. More than any other player, she needs to limit the unforced errors and double faults. As great of a player Serena is, the last thing Vika needs is to give away free games.
Serena clicked on all cylinders in her round of 16 defeat of Venus. She played a near flawless match that saw her commit only 26 winners and 13 unforced errors. When Serena plays at that level, there isn't anyone on the planet who could beat her.
With such a short turnaround, it will help Serena that she defeated her big sister in straight sets. The last thing she needed was for a nearly three hour battle and to play the following day on short fuel.
There won't be any secrets between the two players. They both bring out the best in each other. They both know what they need to do to win, but in the end, I like Serena to win this match. Despite Serena's mind boggling lapses at times, she is still too consistent.
It will be tough for Vika to return against the greatest serve in the history of the women's game on grass. Plus, Serena possesses an all-around game with her serve, defense, and groundstrokes.
This match will go three sets, but Serena will prevail.
(4) Maria Sharapova vs. Coco Vandeweghe
Vandeweghe has beaten three consecutive seeded players at SW19, but can she make it four?
Vandeweghe and Sharapova will be a battle of power. The question is which person will be able to dictate play and impose her will on the other?
Vandeweghe has gotten free points off her serve at this tournament. In order to beat Sharapova, she will need to keep getting free points. Honestly, I don't know how things will go if she tries to trade blows with Sharapova from the baseline.
Vandeweghe has done a good job of mixing up her serves and speeds to keep the returner off balance. She will need to mix in a dose of slices to keep the ball low on Sharapova to make her generate her own pace and to make her bend low to hit the balls.
For Sharapova, all the pressure will be on her. To borrow a line from Kevin Smith's Clerks, in which Dante (Brian O'Halloran) constantly reminds viewers, "I'm not even supposed to be here today".
Sharapova will need to use her experience to get her through the match. She will need to use her consistency in this match. Vandeweghe is playing the best tennis of her life, but hasn't been able to prove it on a consistant basis.
Sharapova will look to dictate play to push Vandeweghe around from side to side and to try to wear her down over the course of the match.
(20) Garbine Muguruza vs. (15) Timea Baczinsky
Baczinsky is looking to build on her best year on the WTA and a run to the semifinals at the French Open.
Muguruza, while inconsistent, has proven to cause headaches when she's on her game.
Muguruza's aggressive offensive game has translated very well to grass. She will need to remain focused and to play on her terms.
Baczinsky, who could be a winner of both the Comeback and Most Improved Player awards, has been shown nice consistency on the WTA tour this year. Baczinsky looks to have the sort of game that translates all surfaces.
You just don't know what you'll get from Muguruza. If she plays up to her capabilities, this match could be one of the best matches of the year. If not, Baczinsky could win the match within one hour.
(21) Madison Keys vs. (13) Agnieszka Radwanska
The addition of Lindsay Davenport to her team is one of the best things to happen to Keys. She has given her a belief and confidence to take her game to the next level. Keys is looking to advance to her second major semifinal this year.
Keys has benefited from a pair of upsets in her section, but deserves credit for handling her business and advancing.
Radwanska has a huge opportunity to rectify a dismal season thus far. However, she's looking to turn a corner and a win over Keys could put her one win away from reaching her second career Wimbledon semifinal.
In the past, I would have given Radwanska a clear cut advantage because of her consistency. But, she's lost that edge this year and all bets are off.
Keys possesses a the type of aggressive game with a huge serve and big groundstrokes to win a few Wimbledon titles in her career. She's only 20 years old, but like others I've mentioned, needs to consistently do it.
Radwanska won't wow anyone with power, but is more of a finesse type of player who gets a lot of balls in play. She does a good job of making players hit the one extra ball that could be an unforced error.
On track record alone, I would give Radwanska the edge. However, with her drop in form, this will be a very close match. Which player will be more consistent? Keys has been known to play well in one set, but lose focus and intensity in the next set.
Keys has been able to get a little more match play on grass by playing doubles with Laura Robson and mixed doubles with fellow young gun, Nick Kyrgios. Will this extra play affect her energy level or give her more confidence?
In a bit of a contrast of styles, we will see which wins out: Radwanska's finesse or Keys' power?
Saturday, July 4, 2015
2015 Wimbledon Third Round Review and Round of 16 Preview
Third Round Upsets:
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. Santiago Giraldo 6-2, 6-7(3), 2-6, 6-1, 6-3
(21) Richard Gasquet d. (11) Grigor Dimitrov 6-3, 6-4, 6-4
(26) Nick Kyrgios d. (7) Milos Raonic, 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(3), 6-3
(23) Ivo Karlovic d. (13) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6(3), 4-6, 7-6(2), 7-6(9)
Women's
Zarina Diyas d. (14) Andrea Petkovic 7-5, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (22) Sam Stosur 6-0, 6-2
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (10) Angelique Kerber 7-6(12), 1-6, 6-2
(Q) Olga Govortsova d. Magdalena Rybarikova 7-6(4), 6-3
(28) Jelena Jankovic d. (2) Petra Kvitova 3-6, 7-5, 6-4
Round of 16 Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(26) Nick Kyrgios d. (21) Richard Gasquet
I'm not sure how much of an upset this would be, if Kyrgios won. After all, he upset Gasquet in the second round, and came back from two sets to love down in the process. As documented before, Gasquet has had his struggles for the past year and a half, but Kyrgios hasn't done much outside the slams, outside of upsetting Federer in Madrid in May.
These two faced off in the final in Estori in May. Gasquet cruised to a routine 6-3, 6-2 win, but the match was on clay.
Gasquet probably has the second best one hand backhand (behind Stan Wawrinka) in the game today. Kyrgios seems to posses more firepower constantly with his groundstrokes on the backhand and forehand wings. Plus, he will be able to get more cheap points on his serve.
I predict Kyrgios pulls off the upset and advances to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon for the second consecutive year.
(23) Ivo Karlovic vs. (3) Andy Murray
"Dr. Ivo" caused a massive shock by sending the reigining champion Lleyton Hewitt packing in a first round upset at Wimbledon in 2003.
Karlovic definitely has the game to cause problems for the top players. Novak Djokovic has lost three matches this year: in the final of the French Open to Stan Wawrinka, in the final in Dubai to Roger Federer, and to Karlovic in Doha in January.
Karlovic's problem is his poor movement and lack of quality returns will hurt him in his match. However, Karlovic knows he can't hang with Murray on the baseline. So, he will probably look to utilize serve and volley throughout the match. Imagine trying to pass someone 6 feet 10 inches at the net!!!
Ever since winning Wimbledon in 2013, Murray finally got rid of the pressure of winning Wimbledon off his back. Murray will probably look to utilize slices to keep the ball low on Karlovic, and just do anything to get the ball back in play on Karlovic's serves. Murray is one of the best defenders. He will hope to wear Karlovic down by making the match physical, while Karlovic will look to shorten points.
Karlovic can win one set (probably in a tiebreaker), but I don't see him beating Murray in a best of five match on Murray's turf.
Women's
(1) Serena Williams vs. (16) Venus Williams
For the first time since 2009, we will get a Williams sisters showdown at Wimbledon. Serena holds a 14-11 lead in their rivalry and a 3-2 lead on grass. Nevertheless, Venus was able to snap her five match losing streak to her little sister in the semifinals at the Rogers Cup last August.
Serena and Venus have split their last two meetings at SW19. Venus beat Serena in the final in 2008, with Serena returning the favor the next year.
Venus has had an easier time at Wimbledon while Serena narrowly avoided the upset against home crowd favorite Heather Watson in the third round.
This matchup is going to come down to who will be able to hold their nerve in this match. Serena has a lot riding on the line in this match. She's only lost once this year, and is looking for her second "Serena" slam of her career. She's also looking to keep her chances of a calendar year Grand slam alive.
For 35-year old Venus, this may be her last chance to hold the Venus Rosewater dish. Will she be able to hit her spots on her serve? Will she be able to shorten points and come in?
Serena needs to clean up her game. She seemed lethargic at certain points in her match with Watson in the third round. With Wimbledon not having play on the middle Sunday, Serena will get two days off to recover and to hit the practice courts to fine tune her game.
I like Serena to win, but I think she will win in two tight sets.
(23) Victoria Azarenka vs. (30) Belinda Bencic
This matchup pits a former number one player in the world vs. an 18-year old upstart. Will Bencic be able to play as loose as Dustin Brown did in his upset of Rafa? Is Azarenka regaining her form that took her to two major titles and the number one ranking?
Bencic doesn't look like she has enough in her arsenal to pull off the upset, but I feel she could win a set, and make Vika feel pressure in this match.
(4) Maria Sharapova vs. Zarina Diyas
Diyas has already upset (24) Flavia Pennetta and (14) Petkovic. Can she pull off her third upset in four matches?
It's possible. Sharapova's serve is known to be erratic with multiple double faults. This match will come down to whether Diyas can hold her serve while doing enough to put pressure on Sharapova's.
Also, will she throw in slices to the 6 foot 2 inch Sharapova. The low ball tosses would give Sharapova fits.
Sharapova doesn't move well. Will she be able to hit through the court and dictate play?
Sharapova needs to clean up the unforced errors, in particular the double faults, in her game. She knows Diyas doesn't have anything to lose, and will probably be loose in this match. However, Sharapova has a very aggressive game with flat groundstrokes that should translate very well on grass.
Even though she's lost in the round of 16 two of the last three years, I don't see it happening this year. Diyas will do some things well, but I don't think she has the weapons to hurt Sharapova. Crazier things have happened, but I like Sharapova to advance in straight sets.
Coco Vandeweghe vs. (6) Lucie Safarova
Vandeweghe has been on fire at Wimbledon this year scoring two big upsets against (11) Karolina Pliskova and (22) Stosur in the second and third rounds respectively.
Safarova has been one of the most consistent players on tour this year and could move up higher in the rankings if she's able to defend last year's semifinal points.
Vandeweghe has a big serve that will definitely give Safarova problems. However, Safarova did a good job of avoiding the upset against an improving Sloane Stephens. I think Safarova is too consistent with her game to lose, but Vandeweghe should win one set. This will be a fun match to watch.
(5) Caroline Wozniacki vs. (20) Garbine Muguruza
Wozniacki is in her fifth round of 16 at Wimbledon, but is looking to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time.
Muguruza is coming off a big upset over former Wimbledon simifinalist (10) Kerber.
Muguruza has talent, but has been too inconsistent with her game. With the upset of Serena in the second round of the French Open last year, I thought she would end the year knocking on the top ten. It hasn't worked out that way, but she's proven to be one of the most dangerous players on the WTA when she's on.
Wozniacki has had a nice resurgence after fading away somewhat for the past couple of years.
Wozniacki seems too consistent for Muguruza. Muguruza brought the goods against Kerber, can she muster it up for the second straight match? I don't think so, but I do think this match will go three sets.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanksa vs. (28) Jelena Jankovic
Jankovic pulled off the biggest upset at Wimbledon so far. Her confidence has to be high, but how much does the 30-year old have left in the tank after going the distance in each of her first three matches? The extra day of rest should help, but like Wozniacki, has never been past the round of 16.
Radwanska is a former Wimbledon finalist who looks like she's slowly regaining her form. If that's the case, I like her to hold off Radwanska. If she can show the same level of consistency that took her as high as the number two ranking, she should be fine. Unfortunately for Radwanska, she doesn't seem to be at that level, yet.
This match is going to come down to who wants it more. It will go the distance, but who will have more left in the reserves in the third set?
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. Santiago Giraldo 6-2, 6-7(3), 2-6, 6-1, 6-3
(21) Richard Gasquet d. (11) Grigor Dimitrov 6-3, 6-4, 6-4
(26) Nick Kyrgios d. (7) Milos Raonic, 5-7, 7-5, 7-6(3), 6-3
(23) Ivo Karlovic d. (13) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 7-6(3), 4-6, 7-6(2), 7-6(9)
Women's
Zarina Diyas d. (14) Andrea Petkovic 7-5, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (22) Sam Stosur 6-0, 6-2
(20) Garbine Muguruza d. (10) Angelique Kerber 7-6(12), 1-6, 6-2
(Q) Olga Govortsova d. Magdalena Rybarikova 7-6(4), 6-3
(28) Jelena Jankovic d. (2) Petra Kvitova 3-6, 7-5, 6-4
Round of 16 Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(26) Nick Kyrgios d. (21) Richard Gasquet
I'm not sure how much of an upset this would be, if Kyrgios won. After all, he upset Gasquet in the second round, and came back from two sets to love down in the process. As documented before, Gasquet has had his struggles for the past year and a half, but Kyrgios hasn't done much outside the slams, outside of upsetting Federer in Madrid in May.
These two faced off in the final in Estori in May. Gasquet cruised to a routine 6-3, 6-2 win, but the match was on clay.
Gasquet probably has the second best one hand backhand (behind Stan Wawrinka) in the game today. Kyrgios seems to posses more firepower constantly with his groundstrokes on the backhand and forehand wings. Plus, he will be able to get more cheap points on his serve.
I predict Kyrgios pulls off the upset and advances to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon for the second consecutive year.
(23) Ivo Karlovic vs. (3) Andy Murray
"Dr. Ivo" caused a massive shock by sending the reigining champion Lleyton Hewitt packing in a first round upset at Wimbledon in 2003.
Karlovic definitely has the game to cause problems for the top players. Novak Djokovic has lost three matches this year: in the final of the French Open to Stan Wawrinka, in the final in Dubai to Roger Federer, and to Karlovic in Doha in January.
Karlovic's problem is his poor movement and lack of quality returns will hurt him in his match. However, Karlovic knows he can't hang with Murray on the baseline. So, he will probably look to utilize serve and volley throughout the match. Imagine trying to pass someone 6 feet 10 inches at the net!!!
Ever since winning Wimbledon in 2013, Murray finally got rid of the pressure of winning Wimbledon off his back. Murray will probably look to utilize slices to keep the ball low on Karlovic, and just do anything to get the ball back in play on Karlovic's serves. Murray is one of the best defenders. He will hope to wear Karlovic down by making the match physical, while Karlovic will look to shorten points.
Karlovic can win one set (probably in a tiebreaker), but I don't see him beating Murray in a best of five match on Murray's turf.
Women's
(1) Serena Williams vs. (16) Venus Williams
For the first time since 2009, we will get a Williams sisters showdown at Wimbledon. Serena holds a 14-11 lead in their rivalry and a 3-2 lead on grass. Nevertheless, Venus was able to snap her five match losing streak to her little sister in the semifinals at the Rogers Cup last August.
Serena and Venus have split their last two meetings at SW19. Venus beat Serena in the final in 2008, with Serena returning the favor the next year.
Venus has had an easier time at Wimbledon while Serena narrowly avoided the upset against home crowd favorite Heather Watson in the third round.
This matchup is going to come down to who will be able to hold their nerve in this match. Serena has a lot riding on the line in this match. She's only lost once this year, and is looking for her second "Serena" slam of her career. She's also looking to keep her chances of a calendar year Grand slam alive.
For 35-year old Venus, this may be her last chance to hold the Venus Rosewater dish. Will she be able to hit her spots on her serve? Will she be able to shorten points and come in?
Serena needs to clean up her game. She seemed lethargic at certain points in her match with Watson in the third round. With Wimbledon not having play on the middle Sunday, Serena will get two days off to recover and to hit the practice courts to fine tune her game.
I like Serena to win, but I think she will win in two tight sets.
(23) Victoria Azarenka vs. (30) Belinda Bencic
This matchup pits a former number one player in the world vs. an 18-year old upstart. Will Bencic be able to play as loose as Dustin Brown did in his upset of Rafa? Is Azarenka regaining her form that took her to two major titles and the number one ranking?
Bencic doesn't look like she has enough in her arsenal to pull off the upset, but I feel she could win a set, and make Vika feel pressure in this match.
(4) Maria Sharapova vs. Zarina Diyas
Diyas has already upset (24) Flavia Pennetta and (14) Petkovic. Can she pull off her third upset in four matches?
It's possible. Sharapova's serve is known to be erratic with multiple double faults. This match will come down to whether Diyas can hold her serve while doing enough to put pressure on Sharapova's.
Also, will she throw in slices to the 6 foot 2 inch Sharapova. The low ball tosses would give Sharapova fits.
Sharapova doesn't move well. Will she be able to hit through the court and dictate play?
Sharapova needs to clean up the unforced errors, in particular the double faults, in her game. She knows Diyas doesn't have anything to lose, and will probably be loose in this match. However, Sharapova has a very aggressive game with flat groundstrokes that should translate very well on grass.
Even though she's lost in the round of 16 two of the last three years, I don't see it happening this year. Diyas will do some things well, but I don't think she has the weapons to hurt Sharapova. Crazier things have happened, but I like Sharapova to advance in straight sets.
Coco Vandeweghe vs. (6) Lucie Safarova
Vandeweghe has been on fire at Wimbledon this year scoring two big upsets against (11) Karolina Pliskova and (22) Stosur in the second and third rounds respectively.
Safarova has been one of the most consistent players on tour this year and could move up higher in the rankings if she's able to defend last year's semifinal points.
Vandeweghe has a big serve that will definitely give Safarova problems. However, Safarova did a good job of avoiding the upset against an improving Sloane Stephens. I think Safarova is too consistent with her game to lose, but Vandeweghe should win one set. This will be a fun match to watch.
(5) Caroline Wozniacki vs. (20) Garbine Muguruza
Wozniacki is in her fifth round of 16 at Wimbledon, but is looking to advance to the quarterfinals for the first time.
Muguruza is coming off a big upset over former Wimbledon simifinalist (10) Kerber.
Muguruza has talent, but has been too inconsistent with her game. With the upset of Serena in the second round of the French Open last year, I thought she would end the year knocking on the top ten. It hasn't worked out that way, but she's proven to be one of the most dangerous players on the WTA when she's on.
Wozniacki has had a nice resurgence after fading away somewhat for the past couple of years.
Wozniacki seems too consistent for Muguruza. Muguruza brought the goods against Kerber, can she muster it up for the second straight match? I don't think so, but I do think this match will go three sets.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanksa vs. (28) Jelena Jankovic
Jankovic pulled off the biggest upset at Wimbledon so far. Her confidence has to be high, but how much does the 30-year old have left in the tank after going the distance in each of her first three matches? The extra day of rest should help, but like Wozniacki, has never been past the round of 16.
Radwanska is a former Wimbledon finalist who looks like she's slowly regaining her form. If that's the case, I like her to hold off Radwanska. If she can show the same level of consistency that took her as high as the number two ranking, she should be fine. Unfortunately for Radwanska, she doesn't seem to be at that level, yet.
This match is going to come down to who wants it more. It will go the distance, but who will have more left in the reserves in the third set?
Thursday, July 2, 2015
2015 Wimbledon: Second Round Review and Third Round Preview
2nd Round Upsets:
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. Alexander Zverev 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(2), 6-4
Fernando Verdasco d. (32) Dominic Thiem 5-7, 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4
(WC) James Ward d. Jiri Vesely 6-2, 7-6(4), 3-6, 6-3
Vasek Pospisil d. (30) Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 6-3
(Q) Dustin Brown d. (10) Rafael Nadal 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4
(Q) Nikoloz Basilashvili d. (15) Feliciano Lopez 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4
Women's
Aleksandra Krunic d. (19) Sara Errani 6-3, 6-7(2), 6-2
(Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands d. (7) Ana Ivanovic 6-3, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (11) Karolina Pliskova 7-6(5), 6-4
Kristyna Pliskova d. (26) Svetlana Kuzetsova 3-6, 6-3, 6-4
Magdalena Rybarikova d. (8) Ekaterina Makarova 6-2, 7-5
(Q) Olga Govortsova d. (25) Alize Cornet 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-1
Casey Dellacqua d. (17) Elina Svitolina 7-6(3), 6-3
Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(24) Leonardo Mayer vs. (14) Kevin Anderson
Mayer reached his current and career high ranking (21) two weeks ago and is playing some of the best tennis of his career. Like Anderson, Mayer reached the round of 16 at Wimbledon last year.
Anderson is coming off a loss to Andy Murray in the finals of Queens two weeks ago and looks to be in solid form moving forward. This matchup will come down to Anderson's vicious serves. If he's on, Mayer won't stand a chance. If he's just a bit off, it will be a toss up.
I expect Anderson to win in four sets.
(9) Marin Cilic vs. (17) John Isner
Along with Milos Raonic, Isner has the deadliest serve in the game today. Trying to return against it gives in the top players headaches. Having said that, it's surprising not to see Isner not doing better at SW19 in his career. His best results have been the third round in each of the past two years, with him looking to move forward to the round of 16 for the first time.
As Cilic showed at the 2014 U.S. Open, when he's on, he's tough to beat. He beat Roger Federer like a drum in the semifinal, which is a feat in of itself. Cilic's coach, Goran Ivanisevic, deserves a lot of credit for tweaking his serve and guiding him to the first major title in his career. Unfortunately for him, Cilic is far from the form he showed last September.
What makes the matchup so interesting is the big time serving from both players along with Isner's poor return. Honestly, I'd be shocked to see one break of serve in this match. Expect to see tiebreakers in each set. This match will be close, but given Cilic's poor form this year, I like the "Marathon Man" to pull off the upset and advance in four.
(4) Stan Wawrinka vs. Fernando Verdasco
Verdasco seems to be the type of player who thrives when the odds are against him. A good, hard serve and powerful groundstrokes will help him on grass.
Wawrinka came up with the goods in a huge upset in the final over (1) Novak Djokovic last month at the French Open. Stan's best result at Wimbledon was a quarterfinal appearance last year.
Both players are inconsistent, but Stan has taken his game to another level two years ago. It will be interesting to see if Verdasco can answer the call again after surviving Thiem in five sets. Will he have enough in the tank at this stage in his career? Wawrinka should win, but it will be four very close sets.
Marcos Baghdatis vs. (16) David Goffin
Baghdatis is not at his 2006 level which saw him reach the final of the Australian Open and the semifinal at Wimbledon. In fact, his best result since that run at Wimbledon in 2006, was a quarterfinal appearance at the same venue in 2007.
Goffin,the ATP's reigning "Comeback Player of the Year" in 2014, has done a tremendous job of moving up the ranking in the past 18 months. He won his first career singles titles last year, but lost in the final of a tune-up event in s'Hertgenbosch to Nicolas Mahut.
Baghdatis came back from two sets down against (Q) John Millman. Like Verdasco, how much will he have left in the tank for Goffin?
(11) Grigor Dimitrov vs. (21) Richard Gasquet
Both guys are in lousy form this year. I mentioned Dimitrov's fall in my post two days ago. Gasquet finished the year in the top 10 and reached the semifinals of the U.S. Open in 2013, but has been in poor form since. Both players have a couple of things in common: both have one-handed backhands and both are semifinalists (Dimitrov, 2014 and Gasquet, 2007). Neither guy has played well this year, but who will play the best in three out five sets?
(26) Nick Kyrgios vs. (7) Milos Raonic
This battle of the young guns is a rematch from last year's quarterfinal in which Raonic won in four sets. Expect to see a lot of aces with these two huge servers, but the key will be their groundstrokes. Which player will be more consistent with the backhands and forehands? Kyrgios loves to put on a show for the crowd, but will he be able to keep his focus and not go for too much?
Also, Raonic has dropped a set in his first two matches. Will he have enough match play under his belt for the dangerous Aussie?
Kyrgios pulled off a shocker to stun Rafael Nadal at SW19 last year. Does he have it in him again to beat another top ten player and avenge last year's defeat?
(WC) James Ward vs. Vasek Posipisil
This is one of the surprise matches at Wimbledon. First, (8) David Ferrer pulled out of the tournament at the last minute with an elbow injury. Instead of facing Ferrer, Ward draws (LL) Luca Vanni in the opening round.
Meanwhile, Pospisil pulled off the upset of Fognini in the second round.
Ward has the home crowd behind him. How does he handle the pressure in a match to determine a spot in the round of 16?
(22) Viktor Troicki vs. (Q) Dustin Brown
Brown pulled off a shocker in a list of four straight players ranked outside the top 100 to beat Nadal at the last four Wimbledon Championships. In each case, the player proceeded to lose the following match in the next round. This could be called the "Curse of Beating Rafa at Wimbledon". In 2012, Rosol lost to Philip Kohlschreiber in the third round after a win over Nadal. In 2013, Darcis lost via walkover to Lukasz Kubot. In 2014, Kyrgios lost in the quarterfinals to Milos Raonic. Can Brown buck this trend?
Brown swung for the fences against Rafa, and hit the ball out of the park. What kind of pressure will he feel against Troicki? People will say if he can beat Nadal, surely he can beat Troicki. Maybe, maybe not.
Troicki is probably happy to not run into Rafa again after falling to him in the final of the Mercedes Cup a few weeks ago. He will be favored in this matchup, but how will his nerves hold up now that he's expected to win.
If Brown plays anywhere near the level he played against Nadal, he will win. However, in every other case of players who've beaten Nadal, they couldn't maintain that level.
(13) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga vs. (23) Ivo Karlovic
Both players have dodged bullets thus far at Wimbledon. Tsonga held off Gilles Muller in five sets in the first round, while Karlovic edged out Dolgopolov in five sets in the second round.
Karlovic has a better serve, but Tsonga is a better overall player. Which Tsonga shows up in this match? If he bring his "A" game, he will win in straight sets. If he brings his "B" game, he should win in four or five. If he brings his "C" game--all bets are off.
(18) Gael Monfils vs. (12) Gilles Simon
After beating Adrian Mannarino in the second round, this match will be the battle of Frenchmen part two for Monfils.
Neither player has played particularly well on grass in their careers, although both have had their moments. Monfils is looking to reach the round of 16 for the first time in his career at Wimbledon? This is his five trip to the third round.
Simon made the round of 16 in 2009, but hasn't been back since.
Something has to give in this match, and it should be fun to watch.
(20) Roberto Bautista Agut vs. (Q) Nikoloz Basilashvili
Basilashvili pulled off a huge upset over the favored Lopez in the second round, and is looking to eliminate a Spaniard for the second consecutive round.
Bautista Agut came back from two sets down over Benoit Paire in the second round.
Lopez is a better grass court player than Bautista Agut, and I expect another upset.
Women's
(30) Belinda Bencic vs. (Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands
Mattek-Sands defeated surprise French Open quarterfinalist Alison Van Uyvanck in the first round and (7) Ana Ivanovic in the second round. Doubles success with Lucie Safarova, with whom she's won the doubles title at the Australian and French Open this year, looks like it's rubbing off for Mattek-Sands.
Bencic won her first career title in the tune-up event in Eastbourne and collected wins over Madison Keys, Caroline Wozniacki, and Agnieszka Radwanska en route to the title.
Which will win out--youth or experience?
Coco Vandeweghe vs. (22) Sam Stosur
Grass is definitely Stosur's weakest surface. This is only Stosur's third trip to the third round in her career.
Vandeweghe's hard serve and her big win over Ivanovic should make a difference in this upset.
Sloane Stephens vs. (6) Lucie Safarova
Stephens showed a lot of promise with surprising run to the semifinals at the Australian Open in 2013. She climbed as high as 11 in the WTA rankings, but like Bouchard, hit a major rough patch. She's currently getting back on track, but is facing an in-form Safarova, who's playing the best tennis of her life.
Safarova proved last year's run at the semifinals of Wimbledon was no fluke by reaching the final of Roland Garros this year.
(20) Garbine Muguruza vs. (10) Angelique Kerber
Muguruza is considered one of the rising stars of the WTA, but how will she fare against Kerber, who's won three titles (including the grass court final in Birminghamm) this year?
Kerber has the experience, but how will she handle the expectations against Muguruza, who doesn't have anything to lose.
(15) Timea Baczinsky vs. (18) Sabine Lisicki
Baczinsky has been one of the hottest players on the WTA tour this year. She's won titles in Acapulco and Monterrey earlier in the year, reached the semifinals of the French Open, and is currently ranked a career high 15 in the world.
Lisicki is considered one of the best grass court players on the WTA tour. Her track record speaks for itself. Her aggressive serve and groundstrokes fits very well with the grass court. However, if she's going to win, she's going to do it the hard way. This feels like a match that will go deep into a third set.
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. Alexander Zverev 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(2), 6-4
Fernando Verdasco d. (32) Dominic Thiem 5-7, 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4
(WC) James Ward d. Jiri Vesely 6-2, 7-6(4), 3-6, 6-3
Vasek Pospisil d. (30) Fabio Fognini 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 6-3
(Q) Dustin Brown d. (10) Rafael Nadal 7-5, 3-6, 6-4, 6-4
(Q) Nikoloz Basilashvili d. (15) Feliciano Lopez 7-5, 3-6, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4
Women's
Aleksandra Krunic d. (19) Sara Errani 6-3, 6-7(2), 6-2
(Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands d. (7) Ana Ivanovic 6-3, 6-4
Coco Vandeweghe d. (11) Karolina Pliskova 7-6(5), 6-4
Kristyna Pliskova d. (26) Svetlana Kuzetsova 3-6, 6-3, 6-4
Magdalena Rybarikova d. (8) Ekaterina Makarova 6-2, 7-5
(Q) Olga Govortsova d. (25) Alize Cornet 7-6(6), 2-6, 6-1
Casey Dellacqua d. (17) Elina Svitolina 7-6(3), 6-3
Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(24) Leonardo Mayer vs. (14) Kevin Anderson
Mayer reached his current and career high ranking (21) two weeks ago and is playing some of the best tennis of his career. Like Anderson, Mayer reached the round of 16 at Wimbledon last year.
Anderson is coming off a loss to Andy Murray in the finals of Queens two weeks ago and looks to be in solid form moving forward. This matchup will come down to Anderson's vicious serves. If he's on, Mayer won't stand a chance. If he's just a bit off, it will be a toss up.
I expect Anderson to win in four sets.
(9) Marin Cilic vs. (17) John Isner
Along with Milos Raonic, Isner has the deadliest serve in the game today. Trying to return against it gives in the top players headaches. Having said that, it's surprising not to see Isner not doing better at SW19 in his career. His best results have been the third round in each of the past two years, with him looking to move forward to the round of 16 for the first time.
As Cilic showed at the 2014 U.S. Open, when he's on, he's tough to beat. He beat Roger Federer like a drum in the semifinal, which is a feat in of itself. Cilic's coach, Goran Ivanisevic, deserves a lot of credit for tweaking his serve and guiding him to the first major title in his career. Unfortunately for him, Cilic is far from the form he showed last September.
What makes the matchup so interesting is the big time serving from both players along with Isner's poor return. Honestly, I'd be shocked to see one break of serve in this match. Expect to see tiebreakers in each set. This match will be close, but given Cilic's poor form this year, I like the "Marathon Man" to pull off the upset and advance in four.
(4) Stan Wawrinka vs. Fernando Verdasco
Verdasco seems to be the type of player who thrives when the odds are against him. A good, hard serve and powerful groundstrokes will help him on grass.
Wawrinka came up with the goods in a huge upset in the final over (1) Novak Djokovic last month at the French Open. Stan's best result at Wimbledon was a quarterfinal appearance last year.
Both players are inconsistent, but Stan has taken his game to another level two years ago. It will be interesting to see if Verdasco can answer the call again after surviving Thiem in five sets. Will he have enough in the tank at this stage in his career? Wawrinka should win, but it will be four very close sets.
Marcos Baghdatis vs. (16) David Goffin
Baghdatis is not at his 2006 level which saw him reach the final of the Australian Open and the semifinal at Wimbledon. In fact, his best result since that run at Wimbledon in 2006, was a quarterfinal appearance at the same venue in 2007.
Goffin,the ATP's reigning "Comeback Player of the Year" in 2014, has done a tremendous job of moving up the ranking in the past 18 months. He won his first career singles titles last year, but lost in the final of a tune-up event in s'Hertgenbosch to Nicolas Mahut.
Baghdatis came back from two sets down against (Q) John Millman. Like Verdasco, how much will he have left in the tank for Goffin?
(11) Grigor Dimitrov vs. (21) Richard Gasquet
Both guys are in lousy form this year. I mentioned Dimitrov's fall in my post two days ago. Gasquet finished the year in the top 10 and reached the semifinals of the U.S. Open in 2013, but has been in poor form since. Both players have a couple of things in common: both have one-handed backhands and both are semifinalists (Dimitrov, 2014 and Gasquet, 2007). Neither guy has played well this year, but who will play the best in three out five sets?
(26) Nick Kyrgios vs. (7) Milos Raonic
This battle of the young guns is a rematch from last year's quarterfinal in which Raonic won in four sets. Expect to see a lot of aces with these two huge servers, but the key will be their groundstrokes. Which player will be more consistent with the backhands and forehands? Kyrgios loves to put on a show for the crowd, but will he be able to keep his focus and not go for too much?
Also, Raonic has dropped a set in his first two matches. Will he have enough match play under his belt for the dangerous Aussie?
Kyrgios pulled off a shocker to stun Rafael Nadal at SW19 last year. Does he have it in him again to beat another top ten player and avenge last year's defeat?
(WC) James Ward vs. Vasek Posipisil
This is one of the surprise matches at Wimbledon. First, (8) David Ferrer pulled out of the tournament at the last minute with an elbow injury. Instead of facing Ferrer, Ward draws (LL) Luca Vanni in the opening round.
Meanwhile, Pospisil pulled off the upset of Fognini in the second round.
Ward has the home crowd behind him. How does he handle the pressure in a match to determine a spot in the round of 16?
(22) Viktor Troicki vs. (Q) Dustin Brown
Brown pulled off a shocker in a list of four straight players ranked outside the top 100 to beat Nadal at the last four Wimbledon Championships. In each case, the player proceeded to lose the following match in the next round. This could be called the "Curse of Beating Rafa at Wimbledon". In 2012, Rosol lost to Philip Kohlschreiber in the third round after a win over Nadal. In 2013, Darcis lost via walkover to Lukasz Kubot. In 2014, Kyrgios lost in the quarterfinals to Milos Raonic. Can Brown buck this trend?
Brown swung for the fences against Rafa, and hit the ball out of the park. What kind of pressure will he feel against Troicki? People will say if he can beat Nadal, surely he can beat Troicki. Maybe, maybe not.
Troicki is probably happy to not run into Rafa again after falling to him in the final of the Mercedes Cup a few weeks ago. He will be favored in this matchup, but how will his nerves hold up now that he's expected to win.
If Brown plays anywhere near the level he played against Nadal, he will win. However, in every other case of players who've beaten Nadal, they couldn't maintain that level.
(13) Jo-Wilfried Tsonga vs. (23) Ivo Karlovic
Both players have dodged bullets thus far at Wimbledon. Tsonga held off Gilles Muller in five sets in the first round, while Karlovic edged out Dolgopolov in five sets in the second round.
Karlovic has a better serve, but Tsonga is a better overall player. Which Tsonga shows up in this match? If he bring his "A" game, he will win in straight sets. If he brings his "B" game, he should win in four or five. If he brings his "C" game--all bets are off.
(18) Gael Monfils vs. (12) Gilles Simon
After beating Adrian Mannarino in the second round, this match will be the battle of Frenchmen part two for Monfils.
Neither player has played particularly well on grass in their careers, although both have had their moments. Monfils is looking to reach the round of 16 for the first time in his career at Wimbledon? This is his five trip to the third round.
Simon made the round of 16 in 2009, but hasn't been back since.
Something has to give in this match, and it should be fun to watch.
(20) Roberto Bautista Agut vs. (Q) Nikoloz Basilashvili
Basilashvili pulled off a huge upset over the favored Lopez in the second round, and is looking to eliminate a Spaniard for the second consecutive round.
Bautista Agut came back from two sets down over Benoit Paire in the second round.
Lopez is a better grass court player than Bautista Agut, and I expect another upset.
Women's
(30) Belinda Bencic vs. (Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands
Mattek-Sands defeated surprise French Open quarterfinalist Alison Van Uyvanck in the first round and (7) Ana Ivanovic in the second round. Doubles success with Lucie Safarova, with whom she's won the doubles title at the Australian and French Open this year, looks like it's rubbing off for Mattek-Sands.
Bencic won her first career title in the tune-up event in Eastbourne and collected wins over Madison Keys, Caroline Wozniacki, and Agnieszka Radwanska en route to the title.
Which will win out--youth or experience?
Coco Vandeweghe vs. (22) Sam Stosur
Grass is definitely Stosur's weakest surface. This is only Stosur's third trip to the third round in her career.
Vandeweghe's hard serve and her big win over Ivanovic should make a difference in this upset.
Sloane Stephens vs. (6) Lucie Safarova
Stephens showed a lot of promise with surprising run to the semifinals at the Australian Open in 2013. She climbed as high as 11 in the WTA rankings, but like Bouchard, hit a major rough patch. She's currently getting back on track, but is facing an in-form Safarova, who's playing the best tennis of her life.
Safarova proved last year's run at the semifinals of Wimbledon was no fluke by reaching the final of Roland Garros this year.
(20) Garbine Muguruza vs. (10) Angelique Kerber
Muguruza is considered one of the rising stars of the WTA, but how will she fare against Kerber, who's won three titles (including the grass court final in Birminghamm) this year?
Kerber has the experience, but how will she handle the expectations against Muguruza, who doesn't have anything to lose.
(15) Timea Baczinsky vs. (18) Sabine Lisicki
Baczinsky has been one of the hottest players on the WTA tour this year. She's won titles in Acapulco and Monterrey earlier in the year, reached the semifinals of the French Open, and is currently ranked a career high 15 in the world.
Lisicki is considered one of the best grass court players on the WTA tour. Her track record speaks for itself. Her aggressive serve and groundstrokes fits very well with the grass court. However, if she's going to win, she's going to do it the hard way. This feels like a match that will go deep into a third set.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
2015 Wimbledon First Round Review and Second Round Preview
1st Round Upsets:
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. (28) Pablo Cuevas 6-7 (4), 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2
Alexander Zverev d. Teymuraz Gabashvili 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, 3-6, 9-7
(Q) John Millman d. (19) Tommy Robredo 6-2, 6-3, 6-4
(Q) Dustin Brown d. Lu Yen-hsun 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, 6-4
Pablo Andujar d. (29) Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 3-6, 6-4, 3-6, 7-5, 6-4
Sam Groth d. (31) Jack Sock 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-3
Women's
Heather Watson d. (32) Caroline Garcia 1-6, 6-3, 8-6
(WC) Jelena Ostapenko d. (9) Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-0
(Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands. d. Alison Van Uytvanck 6-3, 6-2
Zarina Diyas d. (24) Flavia Pennetta 6-3, 2-6, 6-4
Jana Cepelova d. (3) Simona Halep 5-7, 6-4, 6-3
Duan Yingying d. (12) Genie Bouchard
2nd Round Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(9) Marin Cilic vs. Ricardas Berankis
Cilic has struggled with injuries this season and now could be the time for the 2007 Boys U.S. Open Champion to finally live up to his juniors hype and notch one of, if not the biggest, win of his career.
Fernando Verdasco vs. (32) Dominic Thiem
This matchup pairs the upstart (Thiem) against the crafty and dangerous veteran (Verdasco). It appears each guy is heading in opposite directions with the 21 year old Thiem earning his first career seed at a major (32) and a earning his highest ranking (29) two weeks ago (now ranked 30th). The 31 year old Verdasco, who reached a career high number seven ranking seven years ago, is ranked 41 in the world. However, Verdasco can be tough on any given day. He had eventual champion Andy Murray on the ropes in the quarterfinals at Wimbledon in 2013, but couldn't hold on to a 2-0 lead.
(11) Grigor Dimitrov vs. Steve Johnson
After a breakthrough year in 2014 which saw him finally live up to his potential with three titles, a semifinal appearance at SW19, and a career high number eight ranking, 2015 has been a forgettable year for the most part for Dimitrov. He's defending semifinal points, but looks ripe for the picking for Johnson, who won his first career singles match at Wimbledon on Monday.
(PR) Tommy Haas vs. (7) Milos Raonic
After it's all said and done, the ATP just might rename the Comeback Player of the Year award to the Tommy Haas Comeback Player of the Year award. Haas, who was out of action for a year following shoulder surgery, made his return on the grass court swing in Stuttgart and Halle. He only won one match at the two events, and his ranking is down to 861, but never count Haas out. He reached the semifinals on these hallowed grounds in 2009 and boasts two career titles on grass.
Raonic is coming back from his own injury. He cut his clay court season short and skipped the French Open after undergoing surgery on his foot. The hard serving Canadian reached his first career major semifinal at Wimbledon last year, and is looking to play his way back into form. I expect Raonic to win, but it won't be easy against Haas, who will make him earn it the hard way.
(Q) Dustin Brown vs. (10) Rafael Nadal
Nadal is having his worst season on tour since his breakthrough year in 2005. He was able to win his first title on grass in five years at Stuttgart (d. Troicki), but fizzled out in the first round in Queens (l. to Dolgopolov).
The unpredictable Brown will make life difficult for the "King of Clay" with a display of days gone by-- serve and volley. To add more intrigue, Brown won their only career meeting in Halle (6-4, 6-1).
Nadal has been prone to upsets in early rounds with losses to Rosol (2nd round) in 2012, Steve Darcis (1st round) in 2013, and Nick Kyrgios (4th round) in 2014. I expect Rafa to win, but it will definitely be close.
Alexandr Dolgopolov vs. (23) Ivo Karlovic
This matchup pits the finesse of "the Dog" versus the booming serves of "Dr. Ivo". Dolgopolov may be far from the form the got him to a career high ranking (13) three years ago, but he will have enough in his arsenal to give Karlovic fits. It will be interesting to see how "the Dog" returns Karlovic's serves and how "Dr. Ivo" handles the low slices from Dolgopolov.
I will predict Dolgopolov wins in five.
(25) Andreas Seppi vs. Borna Coric
Borna Coric is not afraid of the big stage. At only 18, he already boasts wins over Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. Seppi is coming off a loss in the final in Halle (l. to Federer), but should take plenty of confidence into this matchup.
I worry how much Coric has left in the tank after outdueling Gabashvili in the first round, but he's still a teenager, and should have tons of energy.
(18) Gael Monfils vs. Adrian Mannarino
Monfils is one of the most talented, yet wildly inconsistent guys on the ATP tour. He should be a top ten player every year.
Mannarino reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year. So, he should be comfortable. He's one of the most improved players on the tour, and has reached a career high 29 ranking (now number 34) in the world.
This battle of the Frenchmen will come down to which Monfils shows up. If he's focused, he'll win in straight sets. If not, it will get complicated in a hurry.
Women's
Daniela Hantuchova vs. Heather Watson
Watson held off nerves in front of the home crowd. How will she fare against a former top ten player who's ranking has slipped in recent years?
(19) Sara Errani vs. Aleksandra Krunic
Grass is Errani's worst surface. She's only made it past the second round once (2012) in her career.
Krunic is an up and comer who reached the fourth round of the U.S. Open last year. She has the talent, but will she have the game to pull off the upset?
Kirsten Flipkens vs. (23) Victoria Azarenka
Flipkens (2013) and Azarenka (2011 and 2012) have reached the semifinals at Wimbledon before. However, Flipkens has struggled with her form while Azarenka is working her way back from a 2014 season decimated by injuries. It should be interesting, but expect Vika to prevail.
(11) Karolina Pliskova vs. Coco Vandeweghe
Pliskova is one of the rising young guns of the WTA, but she was pushed to three sets in her first round match against Irina Falconi. She also was stunned by Andreea Mitu in the second round at the French Open.
Vandeweghe has a huge serve which should serve her well on the fast grass courts.
Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova vs. (10) Angelique Kerber
Pavlyuchenkova, who reached a career high number 13 ranking four years ago, will have a showdown with Kerber, a former semifinalist (2012). Both are inconsistent, but Kerber definitely is more consistent. Her confidence should be up with her first career grass court title in Birmingham two weeks ago.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Ajla Tomljanovic
2015 has been rough for Aggie. She was a former top five player who looked to be on the verge of a title. Tomljanovic will give her trouble in this match, but will Tomljanovic win one set or two?
Men's
(WC) Denis Kudla d. (28) Pablo Cuevas 6-7 (4), 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-2
Alexander Zverev d. Teymuraz Gabashvili 6-3, 1-6, 6-3, 3-6, 9-7
(Q) John Millman d. (19) Tommy Robredo 6-2, 6-3, 6-4
(Q) Dustin Brown d. Lu Yen-hsun 3-6, 6-3, 7-5, 6-4
Pablo Andujar d. (29) Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 3-6, 6-4, 3-6, 7-5, 6-4
Sam Groth d. (31) Jack Sock 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-3
Women's
Heather Watson d. (32) Caroline Garcia 1-6, 6-3, 8-6
(WC) Jelena Ostapenko d. (9) Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-0
(Q) Bethanie Mattek-Sands. d. Alison Van Uytvanck 6-3, 6-2
Zarina Diyas d. (24) Flavia Pennetta 6-3, 2-6, 6-4
Jana Cepelova d. (3) Simona Halep 5-7, 6-4, 6-3
Duan Yingying d. (12) Genie Bouchard
2nd Round Matches to Watch/Upset Alert:
Men's
(9) Marin Cilic vs. Ricardas Berankis
Cilic has struggled with injuries this season and now could be the time for the 2007 Boys U.S. Open Champion to finally live up to his juniors hype and notch one of, if not the biggest, win of his career.
Fernando Verdasco vs. (32) Dominic Thiem
This matchup pairs the upstart (Thiem) against the crafty and dangerous veteran (Verdasco). It appears each guy is heading in opposite directions with the 21 year old Thiem earning his first career seed at a major (32) and a earning his highest ranking (29) two weeks ago (now ranked 30th). The 31 year old Verdasco, who reached a career high number seven ranking seven years ago, is ranked 41 in the world. However, Verdasco can be tough on any given day. He had eventual champion Andy Murray on the ropes in the quarterfinals at Wimbledon in 2013, but couldn't hold on to a 2-0 lead.
(11) Grigor Dimitrov vs. Steve Johnson
After a breakthrough year in 2014 which saw him finally live up to his potential with three titles, a semifinal appearance at SW19, and a career high number eight ranking, 2015 has been a forgettable year for the most part for Dimitrov. He's defending semifinal points, but looks ripe for the picking for Johnson, who won his first career singles match at Wimbledon on Monday.
(PR) Tommy Haas vs. (7) Milos Raonic
After it's all said and done, the ATP just might rename the Comeback Player of the Year award to the Tommy Haas Comeback Player of the Year award. Haas, who was out of action for a year following shoulder surgery, made his return on the grass court swing in Stuttgart and Halle. He only won one match at the two events, and his ranking is down to 861, but never count Haas out. He reached the semifinals on these hallowed grounds in 2009 and boasts two career titles on grass.
Raonic is coming back from his own injury. He cut his clay court season short and skipped the French Open after undergoing surgery on his foot. The hard serving Canadian reached his first career major semifinal at Wimbledon last year, and is looking to play his way back into form. I expect Raonic to win, but it won't be easy against Haas, who will make him earn it the hard way.
(Q) Dustin Brown vs. (10) Rafael Nadal
Nadal is having his worst season on tour since his breakthrough year in 2005. He was able to win his first title on grass in five years at Stuttgart (d. Troicki), but fizzled out in the first round in Queens (l. to Dolgopolov).
The unpredictable Brown will make life difficult for the "King of Clay" with a display of days gone by-- serve and volley. To add more intrigue, Brown won their only career meeting in Halle (6-4, 6-1).
Nadal has been prone to upsets in early rounds with losses to Rosol (2nd round) in 2012, Steve Darcis (1st round) in 2013, and Nick Kyrgios (4th round) in 2014. I expect Rafa to win, but it will definitely be close.
Alexandr Dolgopolov vs. (23) Ivo Karlovic
This matchup pits the finesse of "the Dog" versus the booming serves of "Dr. Ivo". Dolgopolov may be far from the form the got him to a career high ranking (13) three years ago, but he will have enough in his arsenal to give Karlovic fits. It will be interesting to see how "the Dog" returns Karlovic's serves and how "Dr. Ivo" handles the low slices from Dolgopolov.
I will predict Dolgopolov wins in five.
(25) Andreas Seppi vs. Borna Coric
Borna Coric is not afraid of the big stage. At only 18, he already boasts wins over Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray. Seppi is coming off a loss in the final in Halle (l. to Federer), but should take plenty of confidence into this matchup.
I worry how much Coric has left in the tank after outdueling Gabashvili in the first round, but he's still a teenager, and should have tons of energy.
(18) Gael Monfils vs. Adrian Mannarino
Monfils is one of the most talented, yet wildly inconsistent guys on the ATP tour. He should be a top ten player every year.
Mannarino reached the fourth round at Wimbledon last year. So, he should be comfortable. He's one of the most improved players on the tour, and has reached a career high 29 ranking (now number 34) in the world.
This battle of the Frenchmen will come down to which Monfils shows up. If he's focused, he'll win in straight sets. If not, it will get complicated in a hurry.
Women's
Daniela Hantuchova vs. Heather Watson
Watson held off nerves in front of the home crowd. How will she fare against a former top ten player who's ranking has slipped in recent years?
(19) Sara Errani vs. Aleksandra Krunic
Grass is Errani's worst surface. She's only made it past the second round once (2012) in her career.
Krunic is an up and comer who reached the fourth round of the U.S. Open last year. She has the talent, but will she have the game to pull off the upset?
Kirsten Flipkens vs. (23) Victoria Azarenka
Flipkens (2013) and Azarenka (2011 and 2012) have reached the semifinals at Wimbledon before. However, Flipkens has struggled with her form while Azarenka is working her way back from a 2014 season decimated by injuries. It should be interesting, but expect Vika to prevail.
(11) Karolina Pliskova vs. Coco Vandeweghe
Pliskova is one of the rising young guns of the WTA, but she was pushed to three sets in her first round match against Irina Falconi. She also was stunned by Andreea Mitu in the second round at the French Open.
Vandeweghe has a huge serve which should serve her well on the fast grass courts.
Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova vs. (10) Angelique Kerber
Pavlyuchenkova, who reached a career high number 13 ranking four years ago, will have a showdown with Kerber, a former semifinalist (2012). Both are inconsistent, but Kerber definitely is more consistent. Her confidence should be up with her first career grass court title in Birmingham two weeks ago.
(13) Agnieszka Radwanska vs. Ajla Tomljanovic
2015 has been rough for Aggie. She was a former top five player who looked to be on the verge of a title. Tomljanovic will give her trouble in this match, but will Tomljanovic win one set or two?
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