Australian Open 2015: Serena Williams vs Garbine Muguruza match preview

A look ahead to the fourth-round match in women’s singles

Serena Williams takes on Garbine Muguruza (Getty Images)

The world No 1 Serena Williams faced unexpected resistance from Elina Svitolina in the third round and needed three sets to secure her spot in the second week of the tournament.

In the first set won by Svitolina, Williams hit more unforced errors (14) than winners (12). She recovered from it like only Serena can, only giving Svitolina two games in the following two sets.

Waiting for her in the next round is Garbine Muguruza of Spain who beat players like Daniela Hantuchova and Timea Bacsinszki en route to the fourth round.

Muguruza famously beat Williams in the second round of Roland Garros last year, and the two players are tied at 1-1 in their head-to head count.

The winner will face either Victoria Azarenka or Dominika Cibulkova.

START: Monday, Rod Laver Arena, second match of the day (starting 00.00 GMT)

PAST MEETINGS:

2014- French Open (Hard) Muguruza won 6-2,6-2

2013- Australian Open (Hard) Williams won 6-2, 6-0

STATS…

Williams leads the event’s fastest serve ranking with 204km/h (127mph). She has also served the most aces so far (25)

Muguruza has the most breakpoints won in the first three rounds with 20 to her name. Williams is just behind her with 18.

Williams has spent 102 continuous weeks as world no. 1 (since 18th February 2013) and 225 weeks in her career.

ODDS…

Williams to win 1.14

Bouchard to win 5

TV: British Eurosport