Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA US Open match.
The world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka will face Markéta Vondroušová, who has only recently returned after a series of injuries. The Belarusian needs to defend ranking points earned last year in New York, when she lifted the title.
Aryna Sabalenka
Sabalenka is having a phenomenal season. Her haul includes trophies in Miami, Rome and Hobart, along with two Grand Slam finals. At this US Open, Aryna looks fully assured: she has not dropped a set, has won 80% of points behind her first serve and has served 16 aces. Even against Cristina Bucsa, the Belarusian conceded only five games (6:1, 6:4). She is traditionally strong in Grand Slam quarter-finals, with 12 wins in her last 13 matches at that stage.
Markéta Vondroušová
Vondroušová is also impressive in New York. The Czech, after challenging seasons and surgeries, has returned to a high level by reaching the quarter-finals. However, her record against top-five opponents is discouraging: six defeats in her last eight meetings. The head-to-head record with Sabalenka on hard courts also leans against her: Aryna has won four of their five matches, three of them in straight sets.
Aryna Sabalenka vs Markéta Vondroušová Prediction
Sabalenka holds the edge in all key areas: the serve, the weight of shot and rally stability. Vondroušová can complicate matters with tactics and variety, yet in her current form Aryna looks out of reach.
