I'm thinking that Oz might be nice to Americans this year.
In the first quarter, I expect Graf to advance to the quarters with
relative ease. Sugiyama will suprise Schultz McCarty, and Davenport
will need three sets to beat her and get a shot at Graf.
In the second quarter, I'm looking for Frazier to upset Huber in the
first round. She's got a great record against Pierce, and will add
another victory as she marches to a quarterfinal showdown with Martinez.
In the third quarter, I'm psyched by the possibility of a Capriati
v. Hingis rematch. Of course, Capriati will need to get by Habsudova
in the third round, which should be a good match. And Raymond could
spoil the showdown by tripping up Hingis in the second round.
In the bottom quarter, I'm thinking all American. If MJ Fernandez
can advance past Basuki or Sawamatsu in the second round, I think she
has a great shot at beating Majoli again. Rubin could have another
stellar clash with ASV in the Rd of 16 to set up a quarterfinal match
with Fernandez.
So, here's my projected draw:
Graf v. Davenport
Martinez v. Frazier
Capriati v. Hingis
MJ Fernandez v. Rubin
Am I dreaming to have 5 of the 8 quarterfinalists American--probably.
But wouldn't it be nice to see things really mixed early on?
--B