Australian Open Women’s Semifinal Picks

Predicted Winners in BOLD

Women’s Singles – Semifinals

Na Li (CHN) [6]
v
Maria Sharapova (RUS) [2]

Na Li did defeat Maria Sharapova in the 2011 French Open semifinal en route to her lone Grand Slam title.  Sharapova has since captured the French Open title and is destroying her 2013 competition.  Na Li could win especially if she can find a way to pressure Sharapova’s serve.  Also, if she can make Sharapova move, her chances of victory rise.  The reality I see is that Maria Sharapova will advance as she is in the zone.  If Na Li can’t find a way to make Sharapova uncomfortable, this could be pretty one-sided.

Victoria Azarenka (BLR) [1]
v
Sloane Stephens (USA) [29]

Stephens pulled the upset of the tournament.  Not having a day of rest will likely help keep her from freezing under a the weight of the situation.  Still, I think Vika is likely to win even if Stephens is playing quite well.  Vika has a chance to win this event, help cement her #1 status and move back into the center of the tennis world.  She has a lot of opportunities to play for something rather than just defend points given that she is #1 and the defending champion.

5 Comments Add yours

  1. I’m going with azarenka and li nA. My bracket picked li nA into the final v Serena. And I think azarenka will win the tournament.

    1. Dan Martin's avatar Dan Martin says:

      I think Li can win this match. I am no fan of Sharapova’s game. So I’d like to see Li win.

  2. At least the Bryan’s seem to be finding their game in the third set

  3. jane's avatar jane says:

    so far li is doing well. pushing maria in service games and handling her own just fine.

    agree with you on azarenka. she should win tonight, and likely the whole thing?

    1. Dan Martin's avatar Dan Martin says:

      I am not sure I an ever pick against Li Na again … I have totally misjudged her chances.

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