Looking for the best bets for the semifinals of the WTA Finals on Saturday, November 14? We break down the day’s matches, analyzing form, playing styles, and the odds to find our favorite picks for the action at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Here’s what we’re betting on — and why.
MORE: Check out Gill Alexander’s WTA Finals best bets on our Pro Picks page!
Jessica Pegula vs. Mirra Andreeva
I won’t have anything on either semifinal. I already hold futures on Andreeva and Noskova to win the event, and I won’t hedge, since I have strong leans on both players in their matches.
Pegula-Andreeva is the more interesting of the two. WTA microphones picked up Pegula speaking poorly of Andreeva during a practice session, which was extremely unfair to the American. Players should be free to say whatever they want to their coaches without the public hearing it. Pegula apologized, and it’s apparently water under the bridge. Still, it’s good for the sport that they’re meeting after all the drama.
As for the actual matchup, Andreeva has the kind of game that could bother Pegula. The Russian covers the court well and misdirects pace, so she should be able to turn defense into effective offense against Pegula’s flat groundstrokes. Her elite returning could also trouble Pegula, who can be shaky on serve. Andreeva also owns the most dangerous weapon on the court: her backhand is an all-world groundstroke.
LEAN: Andreeva -3.5 Games (-125)
Linda Noskova vs. Elina Svitolina
Svitolina will look to counterpunch her way to a win, but Noskova has the potential to neutralize that with efficient, quick-strike tennis. She can run through her service games by hitting her spots, and her big plus-one game should also be a factor. Noskova hits heavy groundstrokes with depth, too, which could draw errors from Svitolina.
Svitolina has plenty of experience and is a feisty competitor. Still, it’s hard not to feel she’ll be a little physically overmatched.
LEAN: Noskova ML (-156)
Added Plays
I usually have A LOT MORE on the Pro Picks page. These plays count towards my record and have been a big part of my success this season. Make sure you check them out. I’ll probably add a few more over there, so refresh that page throughout the day if you’re looking for action. That’s also where I put my Challenger-level plays, as well as picks for lower level ATP and WTA events.
