The last two quarterfinal matches at the French Open are set. Two will be played on Tuesday, but we now also know the two Wednesday matchups. Who will win on Day 11 and move on to Thursday’s semifinals? We’re here to predict both matches for you. Predicting today are myself (Yesh Ginsburg), Jim Smith, Eric Han, and Brett Margolies.
French Open Day 11 Women’s Quarterfinal Predictions
Madison Keys vs Ashleigh Barty
Jim:
This could be some match, presenting an entertaining clash of styles between the skillful Barty and the powerful Keys. Barty doesn’t have the most natural clay-court game, but her wicked slice and accurate forehand ensures she’s always difficult to play. Keys, meanwhile, has the power to hit anyone off the court. But Barty will be able to keep the American uncomfortable and off-balance, and that should be enough to see her into her first Grand Slam semifinal.
Prediction: Barty in 3
Eric:
A tough match to predict as both players have been playing extremely well all tournament. Barty has been more consistent throughout the year, whereas Keys has been patchy. Though clay is not either player’s preferred surface, Barty should pull through.
Prediction: Barty in 3
Brett:
Madison Keys is looking more and more comfortable on the clay as each match goes on. As a big hitter, it’s not a surface you would think she would do well on, but she’s certainly playing well right now. Barty’s unique style of play will be tough for Keys to overcome, but I think the American is playing a little better at the moment.
Prediction: Keys in 3
Yesh:
Both of these women are playing so well right now. This contrast in styles should make this a very fun match to watch. It could really go either way, and will ultimately depend on how Keys can respond to Barty’s slices and ability to push the ball around the court. I’ve underestimated the American so far this tournament, but I won’t do that again.
Prediction: Keys in 3
Simona Halep vs Amanda Anismova
Jim:
Halep might not have arrived in Paris in great form, but it’s getting increasingly hard to bet against the Romanian retaining her title. Standing between her and a place in the semifinals is the young gun Amanda Anisimova, who has enjoyed another fine run at a Major. Halep, however, seems to be peaking at just the right time and looked in very impressive form in destroying the young Pole Iga Swiatek 6-1 6-0 in the fourth round. Expect her to have too much craft and guile for Anisimova as well.
Prediction: Halep in 2
Brett:
Simona Halep gave Iga Swiatek one of those “welcome to the tour” moments in her 6-1 6-0 win. Anisimova has more experience than Swiatek, but Halep rises to the occasion in slams (especially this one). It’s hard to pick against Halep here; she’s in great form and looks to be the favorite on the women’s side right now.
Prediction: Halep in 2
Eric:
Halep is for sure the heavy favorite in this match, but Anisomova has yet to drop a set all tournament, and will have nothing to lose when she plays the defending champion. This match really could go either way, and depends on how Halep plays on the day. I will go for the upset.
Prediction: Anisimova in 3
Yesh:
This will, by far, be the biggest match of Anisimova’s young career so far. She has never struggled with the big stage, and I don’t expect her to start now. The young American has found her clay legs and is coming of age before our eyes. This teenager has the power and all-court game to take anything that the defending champion can throw at her. Right now, I don’t think there’s anyone left in the draw who will beat the 17-year-old.
Prediction: Anisimova in 2
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
