Serena Williams vs Angelique Kerber preview

Saturday January 30, 2016 – Rod Laver Arena

Women’s Final

After blitzing her way past Agnieszka Radwanska in Thursday’s semi-final, Serena Williams is now just one step away from winning her 22nd Grand Slam crown. She must no take on World No. 4 Angelique Kerber who booked her final berth with a semi-final win over Johanna Konta.

Formidable Williams

At the ripe old age of 34, Serena Williams just seems to be getting better. Her performance against World No. 4 Agnieszka Radwanska was devastating in every respect, and she looks destined to bag yet another Grand Slam crown.

Since her sluggish start in Round 1, she has dominated every opponent, and has yet to lose a set. Against Radwanska, she won 88% of her first serve points and 56% of her returns. If she can maintain that level she will undoubtedly win her seventh Melbourne title.

Serena has won five of her six previous meetings against Kerber, with her only defeat coming in Cincinnati back in 2012.

Kerber gunning for first Grand Slam crown

Angelique Kerber will now face a top 10 opponent for this first time in this year’s event in what will be her first Grand Slam final appearance. After cruising past form players Victoria Azarenka and Johanna Konta, the World No. 6 now face reigning champion and six-time former winner Serena Williams.

To say, it will be a tough task is an understatement. Kerber has yet to perform at the kind of level that that will be required to see off the American. Her statistics have been solid but Serena’s have been out of this world. She will need to pull out a career-best display to stand any chance of taking the crown.

Prediction

It is impossible to look past Williams. She is capable of having an off-day, but that may have already come in Round 1. If Kerber can take this game to three sets, it will be a great achievement.

Back Williams in the -5.5 Handicap market at 4/5 with Betfair.