WIMBLEDON, England

Women’s Final Preview: [10] Angelique Kerber (GER) vs. [181] Serena Williams (USA)

When the draw came out about two weeks ago, no one would probably have predicted a Williams versus Kerber final; yet, somehow it is quite fitting for them to renew their rivalry at a major final. They have met eight times before and everyone remembers the shocking loss at the 2016 Australian Open when Kerber upset the favored Williams. Williams would exact some revenge a few months later in the 2016 Wimbledon final; however, it was a battle. Williams leads their head-to-head 6:2; however, there is no doubt that Kerber is hoping to change that statistic on Saturday. The winner of the first set has always won the match and the only match to go three sets was the 201 Australian Open final.

Kerber’s ranking had tumbled a bit from the top ten; however, some recent good results has propelled her back into the top ten at number ten. This is Williams’ fourth tournament back after an extended maternity leave and her current ranking is a lowly 181; however, that is not an accurate indication of her ability. Does Kerber have the advantage because of Williams’ lack of match play and perhaps better fitness? Or, does Williams’ extra motivation to prove that she can still win the big matches after childbirth give her the edge?

Kerber claims she is feeling no pressure; however, I find that hard to believe. No matter who you are, you feel some pressure when you step on the tennis court and the bigger the stage, the more you will feel the pressure and Wimbledon is one of the biggest stages. Williams is not fully back and that may give the advantage to Kerber; however, I have learned never to underestimate the determination of Williams.

It will be Williams’ toughest match to date if we discount her losses to Naomi Osaka and Venus Williams, which were expected given her recent return to the Tour.

SOURCE OF IMAGE: serveandrally