Aus Open Women’s Final Preview: Serena v Venus

Serena Williams v Venus Williams (7:30pm)They have dominated women’s tennis for the better part of two decades and they now meet for a 28th time. Serena leads the H2H 16-11 and 6-2 in Slam Finals but the pair have not met in a major final since Wimbledon back in 2009. Unfortunately for fans they have rarely played great matches. Six of the eight major finals have been decided in straight sets and if Serena gets on top early The Wolf cannot see Venus bouncing back.

Serena has really stepped it up in her last two matches breezing her way past Konta and Lucic-Baroni. Her form has improved with each match and she is yet to drop a set in the tournament. As has been the case in the past she has been able to find her best tennis when required and responded immediately whenever she has been tested. For Venus, this is her first major final in almost 8 years and the pressure looks set to take it’s toll. The Wolf did tip us into the older sister prior to the quarters at $21 and anyone who followed him in will be licking their lips at the prospects of an upset win.

That being said The Wolf says we cannot let that cloud out assessment in this one. Venus has had a remarkable run but in her last match she relied on her defensive skills to get her through – a factor that will take it’s toll on the 36 year old. It is also something she will not be able to rely on against sister Serena. In her semi Venus peppered the backhand of Coco and exposed her weakness – something she will not be able to do in the final.

In addition, they are playing at night which will give Serena another edge. Venus has played all of her matches during the day when the courts have played faster. This has allowed her to earn a heap of free points on serve while also playing up on the baseline. She will need to adjust early and once she falls behind The Wolf says Serena will break her spirit. Anything close to her best will result in a comfortable win.

Little sister is seeking a 23rd Grand Slam title, the number 1 ranking and immortality. Serena in straight.
Best Bet: Serena -4.5 ($1.73)
Value Bet: Under 18.5 games ($2.80)
1st Set Score After 2 Games: Serena 2-0 ($2.45)