Profile-wise, you couldn’t get more different!

The match-up is a pure clash of styles: the “big hitter” against the “strategist.” Yastremska will look to shorten rallies in three or four shots, relying on her ability to hit freely without holding back. Eala, on the other hand, will try to break the rhythm, lengthen the rallies and push Dayana into errors on her overly ambitious finishing attempts. The key will be how Dayana manages her first serves. If she gets over 60% first serves in, it will be very hard for Eala to withstand the pressure. However, on her second serve, Yastremska is still vulnerable, and that’s exactly where Eala will be able to impose her counterpunching game. Dayana is a player whose frustration rises quickly when she can’t finish points fast, which could play into the hands of Eala’s patience, especially with the crowd on her side.

Yet Eala is seen as everyone’s darling, but I just don’t get why! She doesn’t really achieve anything in the end. To me, she’s still an opportunistic player who draws her energy from the vibe around her. As for her finishing, that’s another story. If Dayana finds the lines, it’ll be thank you and goodbye, Eala; the problem is she’s rarely found them this season. The Ukrainian is a streaky player, and I think her easy win over Zhang will be the turning point!