Tennis

Wimbledon 2023: Sonay Kartal Poised to Upset Sorana Cirstea in First RoundAs the curtains rise on Wimbledon 2023, world No. 31 Sorana Cirstea faces an intriguing challenge against qualifier Sonay Kartal in the first round. While Cirstea holds the seeding advantage, her recent form casts doubt on her status as the favorite.Cirstea has endured a dismal run of five consecutive losses, including two straight-set defeats on grass at Birmingham and Eastbourne. Her struggles on the surface are evident in her career record of 29-36 on grass. Moreover, her overall form this season has been underwhelming, with a win-loss record of 12-15.In contrast, Kartal has emerged as a potential giant-killer. The 22-year-old Londoner earned her main draw berth through qualifying, showcasing her resilience and determination. Her impressive run included a convincing 6-3, 6-1 victory over Top 100 player Erika Andreeva.Kartal's aggressive style of play, particularly her heavy forehand, could prove to be a formidable weapon against Cirstea. The Brit's confidence is soaring after her qualifying success, and she will be eager to make a statement on the grandest stage of tennis.Cirstea's reliance on spin may not be the ideal strategy on grass, where low-bouncing slices are more effective. Kartal's ability to match Cirstea's aggression and exploit her weaknesses makes her a genuine threat.Given Cirstea's poor form and Kartal's impressive momentum, the odds favor an upset. Sonay Kartal (+100) represents a compelling value bet to emerge victorious in this first-round encounter.

Iga Swiatek, the world's top-ranked women's tennis player, continued her dominant run at the Mutua Madrid Open, cruising into the fourth round with a 6-1, 6-1 victory over Sorana Cirstea on Saturday. Despite the closed roof, which altered the playing conditions, Swiatek's performance remained unfazed.Swiatek's dominance was evident from the outset, as she broke Cirstea's serve in the opening game and never looked back. The Romanian had two chances to win the first game but failed to capitalize, setting the tone for a one-sided match. Swiatek's relentless aggression and precise shot-making proved too much for Cirstea, who struggled to find her rhythm.In the first set, Swiatek won five straight games after the initial break, showcasing her ability to control the tempo and dictate the rallies. Despite failing to serve out a bagel, she maintained her momentum in the second set, winning another five consecutive games to seal the victory in just 78 minutes.Swiatek's serve was a key factor in her success, as she created 14 break point chances against Cirstea's serve, converting five. Cirstea, on the other hand, had only two break points on Swiatek's serve, both in the first set.The victory extended Swiatek's unbeaten head-to-head record against Cirstea to 4-0. Since losing the first set she played against the Romanian at the 2022 Australian Open, she has won six straight sets, losing no more than three games in any of them.Swiatek's impressive performance in Madrid is a testament to her consistency and adaptability. Despite the different conditions, she was able to maintain her high level of play and secure a spot in the last 16. She will now face either two-time finalist Victoria Azarenka or Spain's Sara Sorribes Tormo for a place in the quarterfinals.