Elina Svitolina was tipped (by me) as a potential French Open 2018 Champion. That is, before being ousted in straight sets by an inspired Mihaela Buzărnescu in Round 3. The quarterfinals of the Nature Valley Classic in Birmingham gives the #2 seed the opportunity of revenge over the Romanian. On grass this time, though.
Solid Start to Grass Season for Clay Courter Svitolina
Even though the match went to three sets, the Ukrainian never looked troubled in her first round triumph over Donna Vekic. It’s hard to know if maybe boyfriend Stan Wawrinka’s comeback troubles distracted Vekic, as she has not looked good in her last two matches. However, Svitolina did look impressive and took control early in a straight sets victory over Alize Cornet in the 2nd round.
It is beginning to look as though, like Wozniacki in losing to Makarova in the 2nd round US Open last season, Svitolina needed a wake-up call. Buzărnescu certainly provided that and was good value for the Roland Garros victory.
Svitolina Looking to Extend Grass Court Winning Streak to Five
It’s an often forgotten fact on the WTA Tour that Elina Svitolina was unbeaten on grass throughout 2017. Of course, purists will point out that she only played two matches on the surface. However, an unbeaten record is an unbeaten record. Also, add that to her two victories in Birmingham and she is 4-0.
Svitolina went into the French Open having retained her Italian Open crown. Arguably, the Buzărnescu blip aside, the Ukrainian is in stellar form. Svitolina is the last player to beat French Open Champion, Simona Halep. Obviously, critics did plenty of sword-sharpening after another disappointing Slam turnout. Whilst a grass court title would be great, focus has to be on putting her best foot forward at Wimbledon–the next Slam. Continued exposure to the surface will certainly help.
Improvement Needed on First Serve % from Svitolina’s Last Match Against Buzărnescu
Elina Svitolina, at her best, is about building points behind a potently accurate first serve. Therefore, in their only previous meeting, the Ukrainian’s first serve percentage of 60% was poor, for her. It was her worst effort in this area in her last nine matches. Therein lies the key to a satisfying revenge-gaining victory for Svitolina.
Prediction: Revenge will be sweet for Svitolina.
Main Photo:
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