In what promises to be a thrilling final, 23-time Major champion Serena Williams, who demolished Barbora Strycova in the semifinals, will take on Simona Halep of Romania, competing in her first Wimbledon final, for the title at the All England Club. Williams may be the favourite coming in to the match, but Halep has shown in the past that she has what it takes to get over the line at a Major. Offering their predictions for this one are Harsh Bhoot, Eric Han, Yesh Ginsburg and Jim Smith.
Serena Williams vs Simona Halep
Harsh: Halep has beaten Williams just once and one can see why. Williams’ penetrating return, which was devastating against Strycova, make it very difficult for Halep to defend her serve. They met earlier this year at the Australian Open and it went the American’s way after a tight three setter. Make no mistake, Halep will give her all, but it looks unlikely to be enough to match the power of Williams. The American looked scarily strong in her semifinal and will take some stopping in the Wimbledon final.
Prediction: Williams in 3
Eric: Both finalists played extremely well in their semifinal matches. The pair have had some tough matches in the past, but the stakes are so much higher in this match up. Williams should win this final, as she has looked sharper in every match, and Halep is still not 100% comfortable on grass. Halep will need to serve flawlessly and hope that Williams’ level drops in order to have any chance lifting the Wimbledon title.
Prediction: Williams in 2
Embed from Getty Images
Yesh: Halep looks so strong, even on the grass. But how can you pick against Williams? She did struggle at times in several of her matches, including against Kaja Juvan and Alison Riske. But overall, she looks healthy, in good form, and history just seems to be on her side. And Williams is 9-1 against Halep, to boot, which will probably decide matters here.
Prediction: Williams in 3
Jim: Halep has only beaten Williams once in ten meetings and never on the grass. But the Romanian has looked mightily impressive so far, negotiating arguably a tougher draw than Williams with ease. And for all the American’s mental fortitude, she has struggle to keep her composure on the biggest stage of late. If Halep can serve well and pick the Williams serve early, she has every chance of lifting the Venus Rosewater Dish.
Prediction: Halep in 3
Main photo:
Embed from Getty Images
