Analysis for Jankovic-Safarova (WTA Miami)

Head-to-head record 2:0

Jankovic is often regarded as one of the fittest and toughest players in recent years of women's tennis for her great defensive abilities and footwork, which classifies her as a counterpuncher. Jelena is known for being one of the few players who can slide on all surfaces, further enhancing her defence. In 2007 she played more matches than any other player did and maintained her third rank as well, which is the proof of her incredible stamina and well-balanced performance. She has very consistent groundstrokes and likes to go down the line more often than crosscourt. Her signature shot is her two-handed backhand down the line. She should be okay with the conditions in Miami but her latest results weren´t impressive. She was struggling hard against mediocre Arvidsson and we don’t know why she is considered to be such a big favourite against Safarova, who already proved she can be a world-beater. She plays left-handed with a two-handed backhand. Her superb timing off the ground allows her to project groundstrokes of effortless power. She is quick to spot opportunities to take the initiative, she hits many spectacular winners, and she runs like the wind. Her preferred surface is clay however she is dangerous on faster surfaces as well. She started the season in a nightmare style but showed some signs of improvement here in Miami. She has already beaten players such as Mauresmo, Kuznetsova, Henin or Vaidisova in her career and also her two meetings with Jankovic were pretty tight. We think that her odds should by below 4.0 and anything above this value is worth trying.