Women’s Third Round Matches to Watch at the U.S. Open

by Doni1212

Doni1212’s Record Thus Far: 18/33

Victoria Azarenka (4) vs. Serena Williams (28)

This match comes way too early in the tournament but that was the luck of the draw as per Williams’s seeding. These two just met a few weeks ago in Toronto where Williams won 6-3 6-3. I expect more of the same here and I am very excited for this match.

-Williams in 2

Jelena Jankovic (11) vs. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova (17)

Surprisingly, Pavlyuchenkova has never lost to Jankovic and has a 2-0 record against her. Jankovic is suffering from a back injury and that may affect whatever chance she has to win this match.

-Pavlyuchenkova in 3

Shuai Peng (13) vs. Julia Goerges (19)

This match is a toss-up. Both women have had an incredible year, perhaps the best in their respective careers. These two have never met before but I expect this match to go three sets as they battle hard for a spot in the 2nd week.

-Peng in 3

Maria Sharapova (3) vs. Flavia Pennetta (26)

Pennetta has not had a good summer coming into the Open winning only two matches in the entire U.S. Open Series. Sharapova looked really good in her second round match under the lights losing only two games. All three of their previous matches have been won by the victor in three sets but I expect Sharapova to win this one in straights.

-Sharapova in 2

Samantha Stosur (9) vs. Nadia Petrova (24)

This is a very interesting match. Both ladies have big serves and groundstrokes and therefore, I expect it to be tough for either player to break. Although Petrova leads the head to head 4-1, I believe that Stosur will win because she has been building on her form and gaining confidence with every match since reaching the final in Toronto.

-Stosur in 3