Allez Justine!

Players Under the Microscope / Editor / 23 August 2007 / Leave a Comment

The world number one is put under the microscope by Betfair's tennis expert Mandeep

The current world number one has been through a lot this year, after an emotional reunion with her family. She did not play in this year's Australian Open, citing personal reasons.

Reconciliation with her father appeared to inspire her to a third consecutive French Open title, overpowering Ana Ivanovic in two easy sets. However, a surprising loss in the semi finals of Wimbledon to Marion Bartoli has cast doubts as to her ability to live up to her favourite status at the upcoming US Open.

Technically, Henin is the most complete player on the WTA tour. She can play every shot in the book, making her a genuine all-round player. She has an underrated serve and a capable forehand, but without doubt her greatest weapon is her awesome backhand, whether it be hit flat, with top spin or sliced. She is relatively small in size, but has wonderful timing on her shots, which generate power only matched by the Williams sisters.

Emotionally, Henin appears to be always in control, just letting slip the occasional "Allez" following an important point. She often looks to her coach Carlos Rodriguez, who has been with her throughout her career. He encourages her to try and develop her game to maximise her potential. This was underlined during Henin's final at the recent Rogers Cup final against Jelena Jankovic. Henin was ultra aggressive from the off, dictating play, and trying shots some would deem "low percentage". However, with this higher risk strategy, Henin is prone to numerous errors. Often her winners vs errors ratio is the key to whether she will win big matches.

Henin obviously loves playing on clay, and has a close bond with the crowd at Roland Garros. However some may say she has not done herself justice in the other Grand Slams. 2006 was a consistent year for her, reaching all four major finals, but winning only one. Amelie Mauresmo defeated her at the Australian Open, and Wimbledon that year, and Maria Sharapova emerged victorious against her at last year's US Open final.

Although capable at the net, Henin relies on her groundstrokes to beat her opponents. This playing style is almost perfect for the US Open. Henin has won 19 of her 35 career titles on hard courts. Her improving volleying helps to make her an excellent bet to reach the latter stages at Flushing Meadow.

So what is a good value bet on her at this year's open? As I always stress, the draw is vital for any Grand Slam tournament. There are dangerous players that must be taken seriously, notably Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams. Sharapova should not be an issue until final due to her seeding. The seeding of Serena means that they could face each other at the semi final stage.

The current price in Betfair's Winner market at the time of writing is 3.25. This is an excellent trading price, as Henin should reach the semi final stage with relative ease. Its at this stage she may face Serena Williams. At this stage her price is likely to be around 2.3 - 2.5 (depending on the form shown by herself and her major rivals), a stage at which it may be prudent to lay off.

I am convinced she has all the talent to win, but worry about her ability to cross the line should she reach this year's final. On paper, she has all the talent and mental strength required, but as we know, tennis is not played on paper!