* All prices are bang up to date with our snazzy widgets, while odds in copy are accurate at time of publishing but subject to change.
Tamara Zidansek heads into her first French open semi-final after beating the player with the most wins on clay this year in Paula Badosa in the quarters, facing another first-time semi-finalist in Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. Pavlyuchenkova’s powerful groundstrokes have been on display throughout her run to the final four and she will look to target Zidansek’s serve, given how well this strategy has worked for her so far.
However, Zidansek’s speed and forehand could cause all sorts of problems for Pavlyuchenkova, especially in rallies. I fancy Zidansek to cause a bit of an upset here, but given Pavlyuchenkova’s experience in playing in big games, it’s hard to see her going down without a fight. I expect Zidansek to win the match and both players win a set.
4pm: Barbora Krejcikova v Maria Sakkari
BETS: Set 1 Total Games 3 Way – Over 10.5, Over 2.5 Total Sets
Maria Sakkari caused a big upset against a much-fancied Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals, opening the door for a first-time winner and four first-time semi-finalists. The Greek No.1 will be full of confidence after ending Swiatek’s 22-consecutive-set win streak at Roland Garros.
Barbora Krejcikova came into the French Open having never having made it past a Grand Slam fourth round, so expectations were low. However, after four straight-set wins in a row, including a gigantic battle with Coco Gauff, nobody would be shocked by another upset in the semis. If both players bring their best, we might be in for a real treat. Set 1 Total Games 3 Way – Over 10.5 and Over 2.5 Total Sets is the way to play here.
Thursday’s tennis tips
Pavlyuchenkova v Zidansek – Zidansek to win the match and both players win a set
Krejcikova v Sakkari – Set 1 Total Games 3 Way – Over 10.5, Over 2.5 Total Sets
* All prices are bang up to date with our snazzy widgets, while odds in copy are accurate at time of publishing but subject to change.
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