Do we think it's safe to assume the Finals mental block is no more after Stuttgart? Or will this be different because it's a bigger tournament?
I don't think it necessarily matters that she hasn't played amazingly this week... she already has confidence in her actual game from Stuttgart, so I think this week is just about building mental confidence by winning matches and keeping "match-fit". Then after this she has a full week to practice at RG in which time she can hopefully get her movement up to Stuttgart standards, and then we'll be set
Considering her final drought ended against Azarenka (of all people) really says a lot. She's EXTREMELY motivated. And she got better with every match this tournament (watch McHale having been the biggest test of all with her losing 10 games ).
Would love her to defend this, without even dropping a set.
I thought she was magnificent today, especially in the 2nd set (despite the 2 drive volley fails, which always hurt so much inside ). Serve was massive.
Maria had a glint in her eye. Even if her game is off she's gonna fight like hell, something Li Na will not be able to keep up with. I expect Maria to win in 2. 64 64
I do have to say, I have jitters thinking about Roland Garros already.
Sending this from my phone. Congratulations to Maria. I am proud of her! And I wish her luck against Li Na. Whatever happens, happens. Li seems finally freed herself from the pressure of her sponsors and money and is playing very solid.
Like what I've seen from Masha, she's improved every match IMO. Also like how even though she's still missing too many returns, they're aggressive and just out. Not like the fails we've seen too much off too many times this year. IW/Miami Final.
Na is playing very well, so I think it will be competetitive, but I think Masha win regardless 'cus Na has been choking badly all week and she even admitted it.
PS. Internet was down so had like 4 days of zero TF Just seen the GM threads
I wasn't able to watch the match today. So glad that Maria is in the final tomorrow against Li. Hope she can win another title. Will be so awesome so near to RG.
It's always tough to predict how Maria's going to show up, especially in a final, but if at least her serve is clicking she should be able to win this in either two or three.
Another great win against a tough opponent. We cant ask for more than that. I really hope she puts in a good performance in the final. Im pretty confident she should be able to get the win if she is serving well.
Does anyone have the stats for the Venus match because I can't find it anywhere. :lol: Also, what time does the final start? European season schedule is so extreme in the States. But I want to be here for this.
As most of you overseas are waking up, I'm preparing to head to bed. Hopefully in the afternoon after I've watched the match recorded, I'll be coming on here posting about a repeat! We shall see...