It’s that awkward period in the year of course where we tennis fans don’t really know what to do with ourselves (as if we ever do), the Australian Open is now a thing of the past but the Sunshine double remains a good while away. It’s the off-season for some.
December was a month that was full of exhibitions and many players played throughout in all sorts of unorthodox matches with the foresight that February would be the month where they take a break. It makes sense after all. It ensures that you still match sharp for the Aussie Open but don’t miss that valuable time to recharge the batteries.
The February period provides a different type of excitement for tennis nerds as we see those who wouldn’t normally be competing for titles having a solid competitive chance. Tomorrow, many tournaments commence including Abu Dhabi, Montpellier, Cordoba, and Dallas. Let’s take a look at some of their opening days and predict the scores:
Kontaveit continues to struggle
To think that she was world number two just a matter of weeks ago is mind-blowing. She now sits as number 18 – still not too bad of course – and is desperately trying to scramble for some form. Her opponent Zhang can be a trick on her day and the 34-year-old doesn’t have a terrible head-to-head record either. It really could go either way here although, I do favour the Estonian slightly. She will be hoping it proves to be a turning point. Although Kontaviet fans, I wouldn’t hold my breath.
Ostapenko to outpower Collins
This is the match of the day over both tours for me. Drama is almost guaranteed but what excites these players so much is the lack of predictability. Especially Ostapenko. On her day she is quality. Off her day well she is …average. Catch her on one of the good days though and there are few who can deal with her.
Sofascore odds suggest that is the American who will progress to the next round, which baffles me. As Ostapenko beating Coco Gauff is no lean feet and losing to Rybakina can be forgiven. The world number 12 is in a good moment currently and will see another straight-sets victory.
Sock to fall victim to Ivashka
Sorry, Jack. It feels like we only see him in the Laver Cup now or at American home events with wildcards. The flick of the wrist forehand will intimidate though, no matter the opponent or situation. Yet, the form doesn’t lie. For all his talent the American has just come off a challenger straight-set loss at the hands of Michelsen.
Who, you are asking? That’s kind of the point. Coming up against someone as solid as Ivashka is never easy. Whether Sock will get back to a competitive level will be interesting, and if he will once more break into the top ten seems unthinkable. I don’t see any extra hope being handed to him tomorrow as it will most likely be another sorry affair for the American.
Photo credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
