The big-game experience and pedigree that separates these two women may be significant, but make no doubt: this is a fitting final for tennis’s most prestigious Grand Slam. Both made sluggish starts to the tournament, but after their displays in the semi-finals – in which they comfortably despatched of their respective opponents in two quick sets – it’s clear to see that Halep and Williams are hitting their peak when it matters most. The American had ominously declared ahead of her victory over Barbora Strycova that, after repeated injury concerns in recent months, her form was returning to its best. The power at her disposal – best showcased in her serves, which frequently surpassed 110mph – was finely balanced by the technical prowess and soft touch she showed at the net. Unafraid to venture forward when necessary, and utterlydominant in the baseline exchanges, the world No 10 had an answer for every one of Strycova’s tricks and flicks. Following Tuesday’s quarter-final victory over Shuai Zhang, the Romanian announced that she had discovered a love for the green stuff after years of struggle on the surface. I love grass – it’s the firsttime when I say that.” If the win over Zhang was Halep’s light-bulb moment, the victory against Elina Svitolina was confirmation of her reformation. Much can be made of the Ukrainian’s shortcomings in that match – her inability to diversify, her lack of intensity – but to do so would be a disservice to the performancerolled out by Halep. Her ability to repackage and repurpose Svitolina’s shots took the wind out of the world No 8’s game, leaving her bereft of ideas to change the course of the match. Coupled with ability to chase nearly every ball down, as well as herwillingness to experiment – something she’s been reluctant to do on grass before – Halep’s approach was virtually unplayable. The mental fortitude she’s exhibited across the past fortnight is further testament to the fine tuning she’s made to her game. Also she tried to make me understand myself and to accept everything I do wrong on court, and to work on those things, which helped me a lot as well.” As such, Halep holds no fear now in coming up against Williams, a seven-time champion here at Wimbledon. On the back of her superior record against the Romanian, grass form and Grand Slam experience, the American is the favourite for this meeting. Related: The biggest talking points from Day Ten at Wimbledon [Read Sport]
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