2015 US Open Women’s Preview and Tips
When the US Open starts on August 31st at Flushing Meadows in New York, all eyes will be on local favourite Serena Williams and her quest to complete the calendar Grand Slam. The last woman to achieve it was Steffi Graf in 1988. Apart from Serena, the interest in the Women’s draw comes from second seed Simona Halep, Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka and Caroline Wozniacki.
Serena has won the last four majors and looks in impeccable form. She is a six-time champion here and has won the last three US Opens. What separates her from the competition is her ability to find extra energy and motivation when the chips are down. At odds of $1.91 at Sportsbet, she is as safe a bet as any can be in modern day tennis.
Halep is the second seed but the Romanian is yet to convince of her ability to win a Grand Slam. After a break through last year, she has struggled throughout this year and would surprise many if she makes the final. Odds of $5.00 at Sportsbet for a Williams vs Halep final offers a little value if you’re looking for more risk.
Sharapova may want to halt Serena’s title push but 17 defeats in a row to her nemesis makes her a sitting duck. However, the 28-year-old is desperate to prove naysayers wrong and win the title she won way back in 2006. Being in the same half as Serena, it would be a huge mountain to climb. Odds of $17 at Sportsbet indicate how tough the Russian’s chances are.
TAKE NOTE: Sharapova pulled out of the US Open just 16 hours before the 1st Round was set to begin – announcing on her Facebook page: “Unfortunately I will not be able to compete in this years US Open. I have done everything possible to be ready but it was just not enough time. To all my amazing fans, I will be back in the Asian swing in a few weeks and look forward to finishing the year healthy and strong”
Victoria Azarenka, Caroline Wozniacki and Ana Ivanovic are some of players that will look to try and topple Serena’s bid for glory. Any of these are capable of springing a surprise or two but carry very slim hopes of going deep in the tournament. Look out for the Swiss teenager Belinda Bencic who surprised Serena and Halep to win the Rogers Cup.
But, the centre of all attention will be Serena as she bids to become only the second woman ever to win a Calendar Grand Slam. It will be a momentous occasion if it happens, and fans can’t wait for the action to begin!
