Fans head into the 2024 WTA season in Brisbane, ready for what could be a thrilling Round of 32 match between Spain's Paula Badosa and rising Armenia star Elina Avanesyan. What else could kick-start a brand New Year than an intensive fight on the tennis ground? Before getting into the action, let me take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy New Year, filled with such moments of thrill in sports!
This is a meeting with all the makings of a classic: the consistency and power of Badosa pitted against the finesse and tenacity of Avanesyan. Both players will be looking to set the tone for the season. Let's delve into what to expect from this much-anticipated matchup.
What are your thoughts on this matchup? Let us know in the comments, and let’s make this New Year one to remember!
Claim Welcome BonusPaula Badosa
Currently ranked No. 12 in the world, Paula Badosa has been a forceful and consistent presence on the WTA circuit. A little in-and-out of form in the last nine matches, going 4-5, the Spanish talent has had a brilliant 2024 record of 37-18 with four career singles titles to her name. Predominantly known for baseline power and aggressive returns, Badosa always aims at dictating the tempo of the rallies.
Coming into this tournament, the last time she competed, the Spaniard lost in an exhibition to World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, but that did show bits and pieces of her renowned shot-making and resilience. In Brisbane, Badosa will seek to reestablish her rhythm and prove why she is considered one of the best players on tour.
Elina Avanesyan
Ranked No. 43, Elina Avanesyan may not have the star power of her opponent, but the Armenian has proved she can punch above her weight. Her recent win in the Round of 64 against Rebecca Sramkova was a case in point as she rallied from a poor start to dominate the last two sets 6-2, 6-2.
Her 2024 YTD of 29-24 indicates a very solid but unspectacular year in which she has frustrated more often than wowed people with her counterpunching style. She'll need to use high first-serve percentages-77% in her last match-and stay mentally clear for any hope of upsetting Badosa.
Expert Betting Tips
Coming into this, Badosa will indeed be the favorite, considering rank, experience, and her aggressive way of playing tennis. Yet, the consistent game of Avanesyan and tactically mature approach can't be discounted either. The ability of the Armenian to convert break points, just like in her last match, will be vital against a player of Badosa's caliber.
The key for Badosa will be to impose her tempo early on and not let Avanesyan get into long rallies. For Avanesyan, consistency, playing longer points, and forcing errors are what will be required against the Spaniard.
- Badosa to Win in Straight Sets: While Avanesyan is a formidable competitor, Badosa’s superior firepower and experience should help her secure a straight-sets victory. (Betway: 1.69 Odds)
- Avanesyan to Create Break Opportunities: Despite the potential loss, Avanesyan’s ability to read serves and construct points could earn her a few break-point opportunities, testing Badosa’s composure. Back Over 2.5 Breaks for Avanesyan (Bet365: 1.83 Odds)
- A Competitive First Set: With both players finding their footing in the opening rounds of the tournament, The first set is likely to be closely contested before Badosa asserts her dominance. Over 9.5 Games in the first set is likely (1xbet: 2.118 Odds)
Other predictions
