The editors and writers of TENNIS.com preview Saturday's French Open women's final—and offer their picks.
(2) Maria Sharapova vs. (21) Sara Errani
—Head to Head: Never played
What Sharapova must do to win
Sharapova can dominate from the first ball on both sides of the net, with her serve, which was strong in her semifinal win over Petra Kvitova (she served 79 percent, won 75 percent of her first-serve points), and with her returns of Errani’s mediocre serve. Sharapova is on a roll, and she has cashed in major titles in these situations in the past.
What Errani must do to win
The Italian has more wins on clay than any other woman this year, and, like her countrywoman Francesca Schiavone two years ago, she’ll be playing with nothing to lose. She surprised Stosur with her skill and fight in the semis, and needs to do the same to Sharapova in the final.
Picks:
Peter Bodo, Senior Writer: Sharapova
I’ve gained enough respect for Errani to not to make light of her chances in the final. But as nimble and clever as Errani is, Sharapova will break down her opponent’s weak serve and roll to a win.
Ed McGrogan, Online Editor: Sharapova
All the pressure is on Sharapova, so her sometimes-shaky serve could suffer. But her more reliable return is the trump card that should erase mistakes and ultimately determine the title.
Richard Pagliaro, Senior Editor: Sharapova
Errani is 24-3 on clay and has beaten three Grand Slam champs to reach her first major final, but Sharapova hits the ball significantly harder and has a wealth of big-match experience.
Stephen Tignor, Senior Writer: Sharapova
She needs this to complete a career Grand Slam; it has made her more determined rather than more nervous so far. And she should have her way in rallies, starting with both her serve and her return.