Victoria Azarenka v Maria Sakkari Ostrava Open 2020 Semi-Finals: Preview, Head-to-Head, Predictions

It’s time for the semis at the WTA Ostrava Open 2020. In the first semi-final, US Open 2020 runner up Victoria Azarenka is up against the Greek player Maria Sakkari. While Azarenka defeated Elisa Mertens, Sakkari eliminated the top-seeded Elina Svitolina to cement her place in the semis of the tournament.

Victoria Azarenka v Maria Sakkari: Preview

The contest is going to be thrilling and exciting for sure. Azarenka has played beautifully on hard-courts this season even beating Serena Williams at the US Open 2020. She has shown control and has been consistent with her accurate forehands. Her biggest advantage is her exceptional gameplay in the long rallies. She was able to conquer Elise Mertens completely, winning the match in straight sets.

The 31-year-old Belarusian player looks in the form of her life and it will not be easy to beat her. But, Maria Sakkari will surely pose a tough challenge. She stunned the tennis world when she steamrolled over Elina Svitolina 6-3, 6-3 in the Round of 16. In her next match against Ons Jabeur, it also became evident that she has the capacity to fight back. Despite losing the first set, she made a terrific comeback.

A strong and well-placed serve is the biggest strength of the 25-year-old Sakkari. She likes to play attacking tennis. On the other hand, Azarenka has an excellent return of serve. She does minimum unforced errors and tries to make the rally long forcing her opponent to make the mistake.

Read More: Maria Sakkari reacts after thrashing Elina Svitolina at the Ostrava Open 2020

Azarenka v Sakkari: Head-to-Head

Azarenka and Sakkari haven’t faced each in any tournament so far. They will be up against each other on the Centre-Court for the very first time when they’ll face each other tomorrow.

Both players will like to take the lead. It will be interesting to see their first battle on the court, that too in a semi-final match.

Azarenka v Sakkari: Predictions

Keeping in mind their current forms, Azarenka is surely starting as the favorite. But, Sakkari is the surprise element. Fans saw how at the French Open 2020, the 19-year-old Iga Swiatek defeated the top-seeded player Simona Halep and eventually went on to win the title. It is a golden opportunity for the World No.23 Sakkari to turn the tables and defeat Azarenka.

But, Azarenka is not a player who will give away points. It’ll take Sakkari some tireless efforts to make her lose points. The former World No.1 Azarenka will surely want to win it to give her a chance at the final. Moreover, she has the experience of how to play in big matches- an element that Sakkari misses.

Pressure during bag matches is inevitable. The player who will be able to manage it better will win and seal a spot in the finals. Chances of an Azarenka win are certainly high but a Sakkari win is also something that is not unexpected.

Also Read: Watch- Victoria Azarenka wins the weirdest point of the year