The Pick, presented by DraftKings Sportsbook: Marin Cilic vs. Felix Auger-Aliassime, Australian Open fourth round

Ann Li has some lofty goals. But no one who’s seen her play thinks her five missions in tennis—to win all four Grand Slams and become No. 1 in the world—is completely unattainable. Blessed with a phenomenal understanding of the game, as well as the talent to match, Li’s time is coming soon. Whether it comes on the red clay of Paris, against world No. 5 and three-time quarterfinalist Elina Svitolina, is Thursday’s question.

Advertising

Photo: Andre Ferreira & Philippe Montigny

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Ukrainian is listed as a solid -360 favorite and projected to win by 4.5 games. Given that the Li is competing in her first Roland Garros main draw, she might be getting a bit too much respect after her 6-0, 6-1 first-round win over 100th-ranked Margarita Gasparyan.

Li hits the ball with incredible pace for her 5’9” frame. Her forehand is both heavy and penetrating.

Advertising

She also does a fantastic job hitting her backhand on the rise, taking valuable time away from opponents.

Svitolina will enter this match with a massive clay-court experience advantage. According to ITFTennis.com, Svitolina has competed in 173 matches on clay compared to just 49—the vast majority on green clay—for Li.

Li is certainly capable of pulling the upset, but betting against such an accomplished veteran on this type of stage is unwise. Look for Svitolina to relish the pace that Li provides, and use her incredible anticipation skills to frustrate the American. Li’s major moment is imminent, just don’t expect it to be in her first ever Roland Garros main draw.

The Pick: Elina Svitolina -4.5