Martina Navratilova, recently at Indian Wells for Sky Sports, is now in South Florida, her home. A former champion with numerous singles and doubles titles, she now focuses on tennis analysis and motherhood.
She is excited about the Miami Open, which combines both roles. Last year, Navratilova and her wife Julia Lemigova adopted two boys.
“It’s my local tournament,” Navratilova mentioned. “I can drop the kids at school and then head to work at the Tennis Channel for an early shift. My commute is fantastic! Julia will handle school pick-up.”
Navratilova, an 18-time Grand Slam singles winner who has overcome cancer, remains energetic at 68. She reflected on Indian Wells and previewed the Miami Open, a major WTA event starting Tuesday.
Key Questions for the Top 5 Players
1. Aryna Sabalenka: How will she recover from recent losses?
Navratilova: Sabalenka needs to reset her strategy against defensive play like Andreeva`s. She should focus on constructing points rather than overpowering opponents, as errors cost her. She needs to rediscover the patience that led her to the top rank.
2. Iga Swiatek: Is there cause for concern after a title drought and visible frustration?
Navratilova: Swiatek has shown frustration, sometimes directed at her team. She needs better emotional control. Confidence seems to be a factor, causing frustration when things get tough. Her skill is still evident, but a positive mindset is crucial. However, remember her consistent success and past Miami Open win.
3. Coco Gauff: Assessing her game after six years at the top level.
Navratilova: Gauff will undoubtedly regain her form. She faces intense pressure. Her serve is better technically, though results don`t fully show it. The forehand remains a challenge. Studying Swiatek’s forehand could offer insights for minor adjustments to improve consistency and handle targeted attacks.
4. Jessica Pegula: How will the Indian Wells loss to Svitolina affect her?
Navratilova: Early losses in big events are tough, but Svitolina is a strong, physical player. It`s not necessarily a major setback, but a reminder for Pegula to elevate her game against top competition. Miami’s conditions suit her better, offering a chance to rebound and aim for a deep run.
5. Madison Keys: Which version will define her season?
Navratilova: Her Australian Open performance was a major positive. In Indian Wells, she faced an exceptionally strong Sabalenka in difficult conditions. That match should be disregarded. Keys needs to overcome any lingering doubts, as that performance isn`t representative of her true abilities.
Insights from Andreeva’s Indian Wells Victory
Reflections on the Indian Wells Final?
Navratilova: The final was remarkable, with momentum shifts and Andreeva`s prior break point struggles against Sabalenka. Her ability to recover was impressive. Perhaps her youth is an advantage, lacking past negative experiences. Coach Martinez`s guidance surely helped, but ultimately, Andreeva managed her nerves.
Comparisons to past 17-year-old players?
Navratilova: Mirra is a well-rounded player, reminding me of Carlos Alcaraz. While not the most powerful, her shot placement, defense, and ability to transition from defense to offense are exceptional, similar to Alcaraz’s style, frustrating opponents like Sabalenka. Her playing style also has elements of Justine Henin, with slices and strong down-the-line shots. Andreeva, however, has a bigger serve and overall game, plus effective drop shots and slice, which are increasingly used by women inspired by men`s tennis.
Can Andreeva win Miami after Indian Wells?
Navratilova: Why not? It’s a challenge due to the physical demand of consecutive tournaments, but she`s fit. It`s a new experience for her. After Miami, she can rest before the clay season in Europe. Beating Sabalenka was unexpected but she proved it possible by finding a way to win.
Final Thoughts on Miami Open
Navratilova: Miami is a new challenge with faster courts and quick turnaround. For Sabalenka and others, it’s about rebounding quickly both physically and mentally after Indian Wells. Swiatek and Gauff should also be strong contenders as they adapt to the conditions. This period is demanding with two major back-to-back events. Winning both Indian Wells and Miami is rare, so freshness and court comfort will be key factors for success.
Rupert Caldwell