Kristyna Pliskova vs. Serena Williams, Roland Garros R1 Preview

Roland Garros, R1 Preview
?? Kristyna Pliskova vs. ?? Serena Williams

Serena Williams will make her first appearance at a Grand Slam event since winning the 2017 Australian Open title when she takes on Kristina Pliskova in the opening round in Paris. Serena has played minimal tennis since that amazing triumph, the 23-time Grand Slam champion will be competing in the main draw at Roland Garros for the first time since a runner-up showing in 2016.

Kristyna Pliskova’s form in the lead up to Paris has been surprisingly impressive. Pliskova reached the quarter-finals in Prague and Nuremburg whilst she came through the qualifying draw to reach the third round in Madrid. Clay is considered Pliskova’s least preferred surface but clearly she is competent on the surface.

Serena Williams made her much anticipated return to the tour earlier this year during the sunshine double. Serena’s form was decent but she was clearly rusty and not close to her best. Serena won a couple of matches in Indian Wells before succumbing to Venus in the third round, A week later Serena was beaten in the opening round in Miami by Naomi Osaka in straight sets. A few months later It will be fascinating to see what type of level Serena can bring to the courts at Roland Garros.

This will be the first career meeting between the pair, can Pliskova cause a big upset?

To view my analysis / prediction for this match: Click here