[Tennis- WTA Dubai] 22.2/ 16:00 I.Swiatek- Q.Zheng

[Radu]

[Tennis- WTA Dubai] 22.2/ 16:00 I.Swiatek- Q.Zheng

Today we head back to the WTA in Dubai where our Polish Queen, Swiatek ($1.14), takes on world number 7, Zheng ($5.50). Swiatek has started her last few games a bit slower than her usual standards, but then heats up, and literally demolishes her opponent. Today she smacked world #15 Svitolina 6-1, 6-4. She hasn't given up a set yet in Dubai, including last year's tournament (albeit the upset in the final).

Zheng has already dropped a set this tournament to world 88, Hibino. Her style of tennis is rather traditional, which is probably enshrined in her Chinese culture. She did reach the Australian Open final, but got dismantled in straight sets. The last time these two played each other was a month ago, when Team Poland was playing Team China in the United Cup Quarter Final (watch here). As you can imagine, Swiatek dealt to her in straight sets.

Yesterday Zheng's first % win percentage was 65%, and she converted 5 / 12 breakpoints. She had 3 aces, gave 5 breakpoint opportunities to her opponent (who converted 1), and 3 double faults against world #29, Potapova. Watch the highlights here. Swiatek's win % on first serve was 68%, and she had 5 aces, and two double faults. She converted 5/6 break points, and gave up 6, where 2 were converted. She had a tougher opponent, which factors into the stats. Noticeably, when she had the break opportunity, she converted them. Highlights here.

I am expecting Zheng to come out strong to disrupt Swiatek's momentum. Swiatek's coaches will remind her that her opponents try and exploit the early period of the match. She'll probably setup shop, and focus on returning serves, and being clinical at hitting those corner shots. I don't think Zheng's drop shot is going to be of too much concern, as Swiatek has the athleticism, and intelligence to counter them. Let's not be fooled by Zheng's ranking, as she only got it as she had an easier route to the Aussie Open final. We do have to give some credit to Zheng's recent performances, and clean hitting, which is why the score prediction will be 6-4, 6-4.

1 (handicap -1,5 sets) @1,70 Bet365

6:3 6:2