The WTA Tour rolls into Madrid this week with a plethora of the world’s top players in action – looking to secure vital ranking points and form before the French Open. The titles have been shared around by the world’s top players this season and with the return of Serena Williams on the horizon next month – many of the big names will be looking over their shoulder here.
Outright Betting & WTA Madrid Preview
Picking a winner here in Madrid does not look an easy task with the usual gathering of big names being joined by some of the most exciting talents in the game currently.
Here’s a look at some of our favourites for the Madrid title:
Simona Halep – 5/1 (Ladbrokes) – The Romanian is still looking for that elusive first Grand Slam but is sitting pretty at the top of the world rankings after another consistent season. With her only title of the year coming on the hard courts in Shenzhen, she will be eager to add to add to her trophy collection here having already won the event twice previously.
Garbine Muguruza – 7/1 (William Hill) – The hard-hitting Spaniard has struggled for form since winning Wimbledon last season but is always a threat – particularly on clay (French Open winner in 2016). Currently placed number 3 in the world rankings and with home support here, she looks a serious contender.
Elina Svitolina – 8/1 (Bet Victor) – The Ukrainian is enjoying yet another solid year on the WTA Tour – placed number 4 in the world rankings and she too is in pursuit of her maiden Grand Slam title. With the Brisbane and Dubai titles already under her belt this season, she’s looking for a third crown already this campaign.
Petra Kvitiova – 8/1 (Betfair) – The Czech superstar has shown amazing resilience to bounce back from her off-court troubles in recent months and looks to be back at the top of her game. Clinching the title, on clay, in front of her home fans in Prague is sure to give her confidence and she’s always a handful to play against – especially in Madrid, winning the event in 2011 and 2015.
In a very open field in the Spanish capital, here are some of the best outside betting tips:
Caroline Wozniacki – 12/1 (Ladbrokes) – The Australian Open champion isn’t known for her clay-court prowess but is in good form this season and will want to keep that going before Roland Garros.
Caroline Garcia – 14/1 (Betfred) – The young Frenchwoman broke into the world’s top 10 at the end of last season and has been there ever since. She’s a real competitor and has a good draw here.
Maria Sharapova – 14/1 (Betway) – Despite not being able to keep a consistent run of form going since her return to tennis last summer, Sharapova won the event in 2014 and is one to watch here.
Elise Mertens – 25/1 (Bet 365) – The young Belgian has had an amazing season: breaking into the world’s top 16 for the first time, reaching the Australian Open semi -final and winning titles in Hobart, Lugano and Morocco to really come of age on the tour. She is one to watch here.
WTA Madrid Top Pick & Betting Tip – Simona Halep – 5/1 (Ladbrokes)
Outside Pick – Petra Kvitova – 8/1 (Betfair)