Wimbledon 2023: Week One
This Wimbledon has actually been shockingly standard for both tournaments. I had the pleasure of attending some matches this year! Let’s discuss some of the results this week and my predictions.
ATP
Djokovic still seems primed to take the title, but in my opinion was not playing as perfectly as usual against Hurkacz.
Hurkacz badly needs to work on his ground game. He was unable to really do anything during many of Djokovic’s service games despite playing pretty flawless service games of his own.
That shot from Rublev against Bublik was awesome, but I think everyone expected Rublev to be out in 4 sets in the following round.
If anyone’s taking down Djokovic, it’s Carlos Alcaraz. He demonstrated excellence against Berrettini. He was even returning significantly better than usual, which I usually consider to be one of the weaker aspects to his game. I think if Alcaraz brings the level against Berrettini to Djokovic’s level against Hurkacz, the Spaniard wins.
Berrettini’s backhand seemed significantly better than usual. I expect him to do well in future events on hard courts.
Rune is doing shockingly well for someone so new to grass.
Sinner has taken advantage of a ridiculous draw en route to the semis, but good for him.
Eubanks defeating Tsitsipas was shocking! I appreciate how composed and relaxed he is on court. You don’t really see that from a lot of top players!
WTA
Swiatek did better than I predicted—I had her losing to Bencic (she almost did.) Even though she lost to Svitolina, that match against Bencic will be really important for her confidence on grass courts. I actually think she can win the tournament in a year or two (given she works out her serve).
Svitolina is playing with much more aggression lately. It especially worked when returning Swiatek’s second serves—I actually feel she will beat Vondrousova and make the final. What a run from her!
Vondrousova is showing some talent, but Pegula seriously choked that match.
Pegula needs to find whatever she needs to make semifinals. She’s becoming Sakkari-esque—she had a very easy route to the semis (ranking-wise) and was in complete control of her quarterfinal until the delay.
I have never seen a worse performance from Petra Kvitova in that first set. All credit to Jabeur, but it was shocking to see Kvitova play like that.
I think Rybakina will win the title.
Sabalenka-Keys is going to be super fun. If Keys brings it, she may well win the tournament.
I think Mirra Andreeva has a bright future, but I’m hesitant to make predictions on such a young player.
Another thing I want to add is a comment on the grass on Centre Court. There have been so many slips and falls this year—it’s starting to get ridiculous. Wimbledon needs to do a better job of keeping their tournament safe for the players! Not only does the slippery court put the players at risk, it ruins good points.