After an excellent week of tennis at the Brisbane International, capped with two thrilling semifinals, just two women remain in contention for the title in Queensland. But will it be American star Madison Keys or Czech world #2 Karolina Pliskova who claims the first Premier-level title of the year?
Brisbane International Final Prediction
Madison Keys vs Karolina Pliskova
Head-to-head: first meeting
Both players showed amazing character to come from a set down in their respective semifinals, with their ability to blast winners from the back of the court also helping their causes considerably. It was, however, a surprise to see some poor serving in both semifinals with Keys and Pliskova usually dominant from the line. Indeed, Keys’ serve had been her most impressive shot on her run to the semifinals as she defeated Marie Bouzkova, Samantha Stosur and Danielle Collins, all without dropping a set.
But although her serve dropped off in the last four against Petra Kvitova, the Czech in the end had the worse day on serve, surrendering seven service games to Keys’ five. Nor could she match Keys’ power and athleticism from the back of the court, which ultimately proved the difference. However, Keys will surely be targeting an improved performance on her own deal when she steps on to court for the final at the Brisbane International.
Pliskova, meanwhile, also did not serve as well as she usually does, but she played the big points almost perfectly. Osaka forced 13 break points, which will be a real concern for Pliskova. But the Japanese was only able to take one of them, as Pliskova played ice-cool tennis when it mattered most, including saving a match point on her way to breaking back late in the second set to keep her hopes alive. She then found her feet in the decider, winning it easily to snap Osaka’s long winning streak and set up what is, surprisingly, a first meeting with Keys.
Both will now be seeking to ensure the perfect preparation for the Australian Open, which looms large on the horizon. But Pliskova may well just have the edge in this one. She clearly enjoys playing in Brisbane, having won the title at this event last season, and she seems determined to repeat the feat. This looks set to be a close contest, but Pliskova has been playing her best tennis when the chips are down all week and if she does so again, she should just about be able to get over the line against Keys.
Prediction: Pliskova in 3
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