The final third round matchup at the 2022 US Open sees the 19th seeded Danielle Collins come up against Alize Cornet, second up on Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday night. This promises to be an entertaining clash between two players that enjoy the spotlight, two feisty competitors. It was Collins who prevailed 7-5 6-1 when the pair met at the Australian Open in January. Will the American be too strong once again? Let’s look at some of the keys to the match.
Danielle Collins vs Alize Cornet
Keys to the match:
1. Danielle Collins – on fire
Danielle Collins has been one of the most impressive players in the draw over the first couple of rounds, despite arriving in New York having not played a match all summer. Collins started the tournament with attention-grabbing 7-6 6-3 win over Naomi Osaka, followed by a 6-2 7-5 victory over Cristina Bucșa. The American’s level is somewhat reminiscent of the level that saw her reach the final at the Australian Open earlier this year, perhaps she is on a similar trajectory in New York. Why not?
2. Alize Cornet – giantkiller
Alize Cornet is having a memorable season, particularly on the biggest of stages. The Frenchwoman has beaten a major champion at each of the Grand Slam events this year, including a 6-3 6-3 opening round win over defending champion Emma Raducanu this week. Cornet backed up her win over Raducanu with a 6-1 1-6 6-3 win over Katerina Siniakova. Cornet famously snapped Iga Swiatek’s 37-match winning streak with a 6-4 6-2 win in the third round of Wimbledon earlier this year. Can Cornet produce another big effort on the biggest stage?
3. Collins’ firepower
Danielle Collins has the power to dominate this matchup. Cornet’s strongest shot is her backhand, but Collins has an even stronger backhand. Collins has more power behind her forehand and first serve and can quickly overwhelm the Frenchwoman if she’s finding her range. The biggest vulnerability in the Collins game right now is her second serve, double faults were a convert through her first few matches and her second serve sits up to be attacked like no other shot. Cornet will need to pressure the Collins serve and hope it cracks, otherwise she is in trouble.
4. Cornet’s versatility
Cornet’s greatest strength is this matchup is her versatility. Collins will overpower Cornet if the Frenchwoman doesn’t get the American into uncomfortable positions. Cornet will need to dig deep into her bag of tricks to throw Collins of her game. Drop shots, slice, different spins and pace to draw Collins into awkward positions will be key for the Frenchwoman.
Verdict
This is a fun matchup, both players bring an exciting style to the court and are not afraid of the big stage. I have liked what I’ve seen from Collins this week, she seems to be in great shape, I believe she can go far this tournament. I admire what Cornet brings to the court, he achievements this year have been impressive, but she is simply overpowered in this matchup. I suspect Collins will make a statement with another commanding performance.
Main photo:
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