contrarian

This is a big tournament with all top players entered - except for Novak (who is hiding in his bunker - hoping that nobody notices that he's running scared. Very strange behaviour for a number 1 player). Rafa has put his body through torture in the last 5 years - but refuses to accept the reality that he should retire. Last week was a disaster, will this week be any different ? He may win a match, but his body won't hold up for multiple matches. Very sad to watch this spectacle...

I suppose Iga can breathe a sigh of relief. After beating Emma last week, people predicted that Emma was on a cusp of 'major' breakthrough. Well, Emma has lost again, fairly easily in an early round, so Iga doesn't have to worry about her...but Iga is probably going to set out to rectify her semis loss last week, and she needs to steamroll some opponents here.

Can Richard perform one last gasp effort here ? I don't think so - Richard is past his best and there are too many younger players prepared to blow him away. Thanks Richard for your past efforts, its been a pleasure to watch.

Sloane may have some confidence back, after winning a low level tournament last week. Elise did well at the beginning of the year, but her performances since have been erratic. Anyone can win this match, but maybe, just maybe, Sloane is in the zone!

Zheng may be ranked in the top ten (based on making the Aussie final, where she didn't beat a seeded player on her way - unbelievable), but her recent performances have been poor. Yulia has a chance for an upset here.