Australian Open Day 2: Match of the Day

Maria Kirilenko vs. Jarmila Gajdosova

This is a tough draw for both players.  Kirilenko comes into the event ranked #29 and Gajdosova #39.

They have played once before and that was last year at Madrid.  Gajdosova won in a tiebreaker in the 3rd set, and I expect it to be just as close this time around.

This could be a make or break year for Kirilenko, will she move intothe upper echelon on women's tennis or will she remain in the upper 20's to 30's? 

One thing we know about Gajdosova is she doesn't get cheated on her swings at the ball.  Like a homerun hitter in baseball, she takes her cuts.  If she keeps the ball in play and stays mentally tough she has a good chance.  I like the consistency of Kirilenko to pull it out 6-4 in the third.