Quarter final predictions

So, the final Grand Slam of the year is upon us. Sadly, world number 3 Maria Sharapova is absent with bursitis in her shoulder and so too of course is Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, who of course stunned everyone recently with her confounding and abrupt retirement. So, most (including myself) believe the title will be decided between Williams and Azarenka. Here are my predictions, though Wimbledon surprised everyone, so here's hope that the US Open follows the script a little more closely.

1st Quarter: Serena Williams VS Kanepi

Williams has a tough draw but I assume she'll handle it; including a potential 4th round clash with Stephens. I think Kerber will lose before the quarters and Kanepi will take advantage. Venus may beat Flipkens in the 1st round, but doesn't have the necessary stamina any more to pose a big threat, whilst Bouchard doesn't yet have enough experience.

2nd Quarter: Radwanska VS Cirstea

Radwanska's consistency will put her in good stead to reach her 1st US Open quarter final, though Lisicki is a dangerous floater. Cirstea is in good form and seeing as she has recently beaten Jankovic and Li, she should advance through her section.

3rd Quarter: Wozniacki VS Halep

Wozniacki has a good chance to return to the late stages of a Grand Slam here, seeing as Vinci is her biggest threat. Halep comes into the event in great form and I can see her handling anyone like Kirilenko, Kuznetsova or Errani in her section.

4th Quarter: Stosur VS Azarenka

Stosur should take advantage of an earlier Kvitova exit here; perhaps at the hands of Petkovic in the 2nd round, though Petrova's always unpredictable. Azarenka has a tough draw, with either Ivanovic or Cibulkova potentially waiting in the 4th round, but is expected to pull through.