Simona Halep vs Amanda Anisimova: French Open Preview and Prediction

Top seed Simona Halep sets up an intriguing third-round clash against fast-improving Amanda Anisimova at the French Open.

Halep commenced her campaign with a straight-set drubbing of Sara Sorribes Tormo. She outlasted her compatriot Irina-Camelia Begu 6-3 6-4 in the second round. 

On the other hand, Anisimova was ruthless in her opener as she thrashed Tamara Korpatsch 6-2 6-0. The same scoreline followed in the next match as she whipped past compatriot, Bernarda Pera. 

Head to Head record 

Anisimova leads the head to head record 1-0 against Halep. She won her quarterfinal against Halep in last year's French Open in straight sets ending her hopes of a title defence. The Romanian would be gunning for revenge this time.

On a 16-match unbeaten streak, she is the player to beat. Anisimova is blessed with a power-packed game that can blow any opponent off the court. She has excellent variety with a mix of slices and drop shots. 

Halep has to continue hitting with depth and precision to trouble the American. She has to interrupt Anisimova's rhythm by using her powerful down-the-line backhand. Anisimova has recovered from her string of injuries and poor form and is looking in fine touch now.

“I know it's going to be tough because she's hitting the ball strong and flat, remember the match from last year, I remember also that I didn't play what I wanted, so I will do some changes and I will just try to play better and to take my chance," said Halep indicating her game plan ahead of the clash. 

Halep will look to control the majority of the rallies from the baseline. Anisimova will aim to create sharp angles and inflict damage with her innovative shot-making. 

The American teen has made significant progress on the tour taking some of the big games in her career so far. Having lost only one set in her last ten matches, this is Halep's most tough challenge. Anisimova will have to dictate terms from the start if she wants to pull off another upset over Halep. 

The Romanian starts as a slight favourite due to her superior form and massive experience on the red dirt. However, the American has every aspect in her game to push Halep to the brink.

Prediction - Simona Halep to win in three sets

Featured Image Credits: tennis.com