2012 Wimbledon Preview: Caroline Wozniacki

“I believe I can win Wimbledon this year,” Caroline Wozniacki told reporters this week. Some doubters might call it yet another one of the Dane’s press-room gaffes, but it’s the right approach—and the only one for the former No. 1. Now No. 7 and a relative afterthought at Slams, Wozniacki is away from the intense pressure and spotlight, which is probably the best thing for her. Wozniacki won’t come into Wimbledon on a high note—she lost her opening-round match in Eastbourne to Christina McHale—but there’s still an opportunity at the All England Club. While some order is taking shape in the women’s game, it’s still in a bit of flux. Consider that Petra Kvitova, last year’s Wimbledon champion, also lost her opener at Eastbourne—and if Sara Errani can be called a Grand Slam finalist, why can’t Wozniacki scale those heights again?

Why She’ll Win:
In this mini-era of first-time major champs, Wozniacki’s relentless determination should take her far. She’s still one of the most consistent players in tennis, which translates well on any surface.

Why She Won’t:
Her offense is offensive at times, and no one is going to give Wozniacki her maiden major. She’ll have to earn it, but too often Wozniacki tries to let her opponents beat themselves.

Bottom Line:
Wozniacki is susceptible to big-hitters, so a favorable draw would be welcome. After that, it’s up to her; she needs to put both the immediate and distant past behind her, and start anew.

More Previews

—Victoria Azarenka
—Tomas Berdych
—Novak Djokovic
—Roger Federer
—John Isner
—Petra Kvitova
—Andy Murray
—Rafael Nadal
—Agnieszka Radwanska
—Maria Sharapova
—Serena Williams
—Caroline Wozniacki