Wimbledon 2013: Five first round ladies matches to watch

Much has been said, done and surmised over the last few days with two superstars engaging themselves in a volatile exchange and a former Wimbledon champion’s alleged relationship shocking the world. But now it’s all down to business. The sky is looking azure blue, the Centre Court is basking in all of its glory – the ambience is beseeching the stars to deliver the perfect opening day. And so let us have a look at a host of first round ladies matches that can be as enthralling and dramatic and can set the tone for the rest of Wimbledon.

(3) Maria Sharapova v Kristina Mladenovic (Head-to-head: First meeting)

Maria Sharapova

The Russian 2004 Wimbledon champion has always been the cynosure of all eyes, but this time she gained a lot of attention for her comments about off-court affairs. Firing salvos at the World No. 1 Serena Williams after her remarks presumably against the World No. 3, Sharapova has just delivered a mouthwatering starter even before the main course has begun.

Looking every bit the ferocious competitor she is at Paris, Maria has her work cut out right from Round 1 at SW19. She faces Kristina Mladenovic, a fast rising French girl who is likely to impose some challenge. Kristina is a junior Wimbledon runner-up and has been making her presence felt on the Tour which includes a runner-up finish in the French Open mixed doubles. Maria by now is too experienced to go out this early but then she herself knows youngsters can be pretty dangerous.

Prediction: Sharapova wins in straight sets.

(10) Maria Kirilenko v Laura Robson (Head-to-head: First meeting)

Laura Robson

Sharapova’s erstwhile best buddy, Maria Kirilenko also faces a hazardous path if she is to continue racking up wins like she did at Roland Garros. She is going through one of the best phases as far as her singles career is concerned, having broken into the top 10 recently. She has variety and versatility on the court which could become problematic for her opponent, the 19-year-old Laura Robson.

As daunting a task it might seem for the British No. 1, she has certain advantages too working in her favour. She will receive vociferous support in this match which will most likely get a Centre Court scheduling and the junior Wimbledon champion likes grass. She has been working a lot on her service rhythm with her new coach Miles Maclagan. If she can bring up a potent serve and her experience of demolishing elite players on the big stage, the British fans might get a chance to rejoice.

Prediction: Robson wins in three sets.