A pretty interesting matchup will happen at the upcoming Miami Open as Angelique Kerber takes on Sloane Stephens.
This is a rather interesting matchup between two veterans who haven't played their best tennis in recent years. Both Kerber and Stephens are sometimes removed from their best tennis, but both have the potential of playing really strong tennis even now.
Stephens is always a tough one, especially on native soil and especially for Kerber, who really struggled against her in the past. Now, they will meet again, and on a grand stage - a WTA 1000 tournament.
Both need some solid wins in 2024, and to kick-start the Miami Open campaign with a win would be a success for both players.
Head-to-head:
Having met seven times before their match in Miami, Stephens leads the H2H. The score is 5-2 for the American, with the most recent meeting happening at the 2021 US Open, which Kerber won.
It's been a long time since that match, but one of their matchups was played at the Miami Open as well, and it was a pretty easy win for Stephens. So, what exactly gives the American the advantage against Kerber?
| Angelique Kerber | Sloane Stephens | |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | H2H | 5 |
| 607 | Rank | 44 |
| 36 | Age | 30 |
| 4-7 | 2024 W/L | 7-7 |
| 674-369 | Career W/L | 365-267 |
Prediction:
The deciding factor may be stability. Stephens can add a lot of power to her shots, which doesn't really change much. I think that can give her a problem for a player who relies on the style Kerber uses.
We've seen her struggle this year against some of these aggressive players, and I think the Miami Open will allow her to do more of that. I think ultimately, it will tip the matchup in her favour once more.
Prediction: Sloane Stephens to win in two sets.
0 Comments