2021 WTA Finals Group Stage – Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek Preview & Prediction
THE FACTS
When is Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek on and what time does it start? Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek will take place on Sunday 14th November, 2021 – not before 01:30 (UK)
Where is Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek taking place? Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek will take place at the Panamerican Tennis Center in Guadalajara, Mexico
What surface is Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek being played on? Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek will take place on an outdoor hard court
Where can I get tickets for Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek? Visit this link for the latest ticket information for Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek
What channel is Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek on? Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek will be televised on the Amazon Prime Video app on smart TVs
Where can I stream Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek? Amazon Prime subscribers can stream Aryna Sabalenka vs Iga Swiatek live via their platform
THE LOWDOWN
World number two Aryna Sabalenka was humbled by a ruthless performance from Paula Badosa on Thursday, taking just four games in a straight-sets defeat to the Spaniard. 23-year-old Sabalenka contracted covid-19 on the eve of Indian Wells last month and it is likely that she is still suffering from the consequences here having missed out on valuable match-practice. The Belarussian needs a win to make the semi-finals as the top seed but world number nine Iga Swiatek is just as desperate after being brought to tears by her defeat to Maria Sakkari in her first group match. The 20-year-old has struggled to find her trademark ruthless streak since losing to Sakkari at the French Open as the defending champion back in June but it will not be long before she rediscovers it. At her best, the Pole makes winning tournaments look a breeze, with her 6-0, 6-0 victory in the Italian Open final against former champion Karolina Pliskova the best example.
THE PREDICTION
Aryna Sabalenka’s covid-19 contraction last month was unfortunate but yet another telling sign that some players are choosing to take the risk. It looks likely to cost the 23-year-old a chance at winning the WTA Finals as the top seed, after world number one Ash Barty ended her season, with Iga Swiatek well aware of her chance here against an out-of-practice heavy-hitter like Sabalenka. If Swiatek starts as hard as she can, this should fall the way of the Pole. Her emotional outburst on Thursday could be the turning point in Guadalajara with this first meeting with Sabalenka a perfect way to rekindle her confidence. Take Swiatek to win here, or more cautiously to take at least a set as the likelier winner.
