Day 2 of the Mubadala Silicon Valley Open brings some intriguing match ups. Victoria Azarenka starts her campaign against qualifier Harmony Tan. Danielle Collins and Andrea Petkovic will both be in action, looking to make a deep run in San Jose.
Here’s a look at three of the six matches which will complete the opening round. We also have predictions for the other three matches–including Venus Williams vs Bethanie Mattek-Sands. Who’s moving on to the second round in sunny San Jose?
Mubadala Silicon Valley Open Day 2 Predictions
Zhang Shuai vs Danielle Collins
Head to head: First meeting
Zhang had a great run to the quarterfinals at Wimbledon and made the round of 16 in Eastbourne. But, rarely has the Zhang turned in that level of performance on the hard court. The veteran Chinese doesn’t have the heavy shots or the enormous serve which sets opponents back. Zhang can defend well, but the power she’ll see off Collins’ racket should prove too much. Collins had mediocre success on clay and grass courts but should excel during this hard court swing.
Prediction: Collins in 2
Victoria Azarenka vs Harmony Tan
Head to head: First meeting
Victoria Azarenka’s form has been consistently improving, albeit the serve can go off the rails at the most inopportune times. The Azarenka losses happen when she meets an inform, higher ranked opponent. France’s Harmony Tan played well in the qualifying round. Unfortunately, this is a tough way to open her main draw campaign. Azarenka is playing far too well to be threated by the qualifier.
Prediction: Azarenka in 2
Madison Brengle vs Andrea Petkovic
Head to head: Brengle 1-1 Petkovic
If the oddsmakers are to be believed, Madison Brengle should win this match in straight sets. But, I just don’t see it being that straightforward. Petkovic tends to surprise – the harder the opponent, the better the German does. And, I suspect it will be a battle between the hard-hitting American, Madison Brengle and the hard working Petkovic. It’s not Petkovic’s best surface and it’s the surface on which Brengle tends to excel. I think this one will go to a decider after this duo splits two tight sets. But, Brengle should have an ever so slight edge on an American hard court.
Prediction: Brengle in 3
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