The S-Thread #1/Live Thread For 10/23/12 (Second Version): 2012 WTA Championships, Day 1

I favor Radwanska, a rusty Serena, and Sharapova today.

Sharapova has got to win this match today against Errani, someone who she should physically hammer every single time.

Overall, I think the Top 4 will be the last 4. Kvitova, even indoors, is not on good enough to beat Sharapova, but that could all change though in a snap.

Live coverage all day here.

The LIVE Updates

Great performance by Aga Radwanska, who really showed why she is among the best in the world, right behind Serena Williams and Victoria Azarenka. Though Kvitova wasn't at her best, that was because Aga had just enough depth on her shots to prevent Kvitova from being in the best closer situations.

It was another great display from the Pole, the type of display that could see her top the group. For Kvitova, she will have to find a way to beat Sharapova for the first time this year. With how Sharapova has the edge over her now movement wise, as well as becoming a massive hitter again, it will be difficult for the still smaller Kvitova (6'3 for Maria, 6'1 for Petra) to advance to the semifinals after not showing much against

It was routine solid stuff, outside of a health scare in set one, from Serena Williams today. She got her revenge on Angelique Kerber being one of only four woman to beat her this year, and it was comprehensive from the legend.

What was most impressive was how sharp Serena was after a six week layoff from her US Open title. And she really got into the head of Kerber this match, making the German #1 be more aggressive in the 2nd set, something that took Kerber out of her relaxed counterpuncher zone.

Serena goes to 54-4 on the campaign in 2012. That is quite terrific. 

As expected, routine result from Sharapova against Errani. When you are a 6'3 heavyweight dealing with a 5'4 lightweight, you need a miracle on the day. And for Errani, that is such a major ask always.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
So that concludes Day 1 of the WTA Championships: More coverage will continue tomorrow with Day 2, with debuts for Chinese superstar Li Na and world #1 Victoria Azarenka in Istanbul. Until then, see you!