Jessica Pegula vs. Barbora Krejcikova Round 3 of Group A in the high-stakes atmosphere of the WTA Tour Finals pits Jessica Pegula against Barbora Krejcikova. Both players will be attempting to secure a spot in the tournament after challenging losses in their openers. Globally #6-ranked Pegula lost to Coco Gauff in straight sets. Global #13 Krejcikova took a hard-luck defeat in straight sets to Iga Swiatek. Not only will this match test the resolute will and mental toughness of each player, but it could become a tactical showcase between two of the most versatile competitors on the WTA circuit. The head-to-head series is 1-1, with Krejcikova receiving the fresher win against Pegula in the 2023 Dubai semifinals; hence, both players will have everything at stake here.
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With Krejcikova, therefore, trying to shake up her opponent's rhythm with her crafty shot-making and dynamic style, Pegula will need to find her rhythm and get into the flow as quickly as possible. Starting poorly against Gauff, Pegula will be eager for a reset of performances, especially first serves and break points. Krejcikova, on the other hand, belied her reputation for being diffident on court with a combative display against Swiatek-taking a set off the world No 1 with guile and poise off the baseline. She still looks so uncomfortably candid and raw with her emotions on court, but in terms of her game, Krejcikova did a good thing; her large number of double faults will be her shortcoming for a while. That could be the difference in this match-which player can stay focused and execute tactically, under pressure.
Tactical Approach
Pegula will want to win with a big first serve and aggressive baseline play to take control of rallies. She'll need to raise the level of first-serve points against Krejcikova, too, and break-point conversion against Krejcikova, compared to what she managed in her last match-29 percent versus Gauff. The key for Pegula will be her serve: a high percentage of first serves in, and forcing Krejcikova into weak second serves, should continue to put pressure on Krejcikova. Pegula also needs to be fully aware of Krejcikova's versatility and be prepared for drop shots, variations in pace, and other often-used tools.
Meanwhile, Krejcikova will be looking at using a tactical mix to unsettle Pegula. Her ability to construct the points with precision will pay dividend here, especially if she succeeds in targeting the American's backhand. Her 64% success on break points saved against Swiatek underlined her capacity for handling the tight situations well. Still, Krejcikova must minimize double faults-6 in the last match-to retain momentum. Krejcikova has to back up the stronger first serve-63% of points won-and attack Pegula's weaknesses in longer rallies with variation of shots.
Expert Betting Tips
Krejcikova will come into this match full of confidence, especially given the tactical flexibility she showed in her most recent outing against Pegula. Pegula's struggles with her first-serve points in her match against Gauff hint at a possible weakness Krejcikova might be able to take advantage of. If Krejcikova sustains consistency in serve and minimizes her double faults, then she has a great possibility to boss the game, especially when she is confident in the long rallies and the strategic construction of a point.
Given that both players are entertaining and considering the surface, this is a match that could very well go three sets. Krejcikova's ability to adapt and change her tactics in play would help her edge out a tightly contested Pegula, but the powerful shots of Pegula may still allow her to take a set.
Both players are very motivated, and their match history has been competitive. This match should extend past the normal 21.5-game threshold. Playing styles also indicate extended rallies and tight sets, so this will be a very good over bet with each set pushing toward a decisive game count.
- Barbora Krejcikova (+3.5) Games Handicap @ 1.60 Odds
- Barbora Krejcikova Wins a Set @ 1.54 Odds
- Barbora Krejcikova Wins @ 2.37 Odds