As the Australian Open women’s semi-finals approach, the betting spotlight intensifies. Below are our detailed previews and predictions for these crucial matches.
Aryna Sabalenka vs Elina Svitolina
Aryna Sabalenka and Elina Svitolina both demonstrated commanding performances in their quarter-final encounters. Sabalenka secured a swift straight-sets victory against Iva Jović, losing only three games, while Svitolina convincingly defeated a subdued Coco Gauff with a 6-1, 6-2 scoreline.
Neither player is expected to suffer from fatigue, given Svitolina’s rapid 59-minute win and Sabalenka’s 89-minute match. Their quarter-final victories, characterized by dominant displays from start to finish, offer a glimpse into their current formidable form.
Elina Svitolina has not managed a win against Aryna Sabalenka since 2020. To overcome this head-to-head deficit, Svitolina will need an exceptionally strong return game and must prevent Sabalenka from exploiting her second serve.
Considering Sabalenka’s recent dominance over Svitolina, betting on Sabalenka to cover the game handicap appears to be a favorable option.
Prediction: Aryna Sabalenka -4.5 game handicap
Elena Rybakina vs Jessica Pegula
Elena Rybakina delivered a masterclass performance against Iga Świątek in the quarter-finals, setting up a clash with Jessica Pegula. Rybakina outperformed Świątek by 20 points and, remarkably, only faced four break points throughout the match, despite her first-serve percentage being under 50%.
While their recent head-to-head record is evenly balanced, Rybakina emerged victorious in their three-set encounter at last year’s WTA Finals. Pegula has consistently proven her ability to defeat powerful opponents and will face a similar challenge against Rybakina, who registered 11 aces in her quarter-final.
Given her exceptional form throughout the tournament in Melbourne, Rybakina is a well-deserved favorite. Although the match may not be entirely straightforward, we anticipate her securing a victory in straight sets, positioning her for a significant share of the Australian Open prize money in the final.
Prediction: Elena Rybakina to win 2-0