Flavia Pennetta vs. Petra Kvitova

This match is interesting to me.  Flavia Pennetta is the definition of a cagey veteran. Petra Kvitova when she is on her game is nearly untouchable.  Petra’s big lefty serve and full aresenal of weapons makes the Czech the clear favorite.  Petra’s winning streak aside, Kvitova’s questionable ability to handle tough elements and her bout of mono from earlier this year make this match far from a sure thing.  Petra might have preferred a night match, but with the US Open’s new schedule neither of the Wednesday quarterfinal matches in the women’s draw will be night matches.

If Flavia can get a lead, I think the Italian can pull the upset.  Petra is a great front runner who is riding a winning streak.  If Petra wins the first set, the match almost certainly goes to Kvitova.  If Flavia wins the first set and forces an extended battle, the odds are maybe better than 50% that Flavia keeps the slim hopes of an all-Italian final round alive.  Still, I think talent and firepower are the smart picks here.

My Prediction: Petra Kvitova d. Flavia Pennetta 7-5, 6-2