By Erik Gudris | Friday, August 29, 2014

 

Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova are just two players hoping to reach the US Open second week after their Friday matches.

Photo Credit: AP

Several players aim to reach the US Open second week on Friday. But first, they have to get through their second and third round matches. Here's a preview.

(2) Roger Federer vs. Sam Groth, Ashe Stadium

Federer is the heavy favorite against the Australian Groth in this night match. Groth, who holds the unofficial record for the fastest serve hit by a man, will hope to fire down as many as he can against Federer.

Yet, that likely won't be enough to stop the former champion from reaching the next round.Groth will have to hope his big serve gets him into a few tiebreaks that he can maybe win. Yet, Federer should still get through this even if he does drop a set.

Pick: Federer

(5) Maria Sharapova vs. (26) Sabine Lisicki, Ashe Stadium

Speaking of fastest serves, Lisicki currently holds the record for the fastest women's serve after striking a huge one in Stanford a few weeks ago. The former Wimbledon finalist will need more than big serves if she want to derail Sharapova though.

Sharapova struggled in her opening round match and will seek to play much better. If she doesn't, this match could yet again prove a close three settter. But, Sharapova thrives in extended matches and that should give her the edge once again.

Pick: Sharapova

(4) David Ferrer vs. Bernard Tomic, Ashe Stadium

Why does this day match feel like a potential upset? Ferrer, who reached the Cincinnati final, is much steadier and the more seasoned player. Yet, Tomic likes playing on big stages. Add in that he probably feels like he has something to prove after his up and down season, and this could be a five setter in the making.

If Ferrer comes out solid and stays that way, he will win. But if he gives Tomic an opening, watch out.

Pick: Ferrer

(10) Caroline Wozniacki vs. (18) Andrea Petkovic, Grandstand

This match could be too close to call, especially if Petkovic shows up and plays her best. Wozniacki is having a bit of resurgence now and will want to reach the second week. If only to prove she can be a factor again at a Grand Slam. Expect great rallies in this one.

Pick: Wozniacki

(17) Roberto Bautista Agut vs. Tim Smyczek, Court 17

Smyczek, who was the last American man left in the draw last year, has a tough task in the second round. Baustista Agut is one of the most improved players this season and fully deserves his seed. But if the American can get an early lead, and get the crowd behind him, this could turn into an entertaining battle that might go down to the wire.

Will experience prevail? Or will Smyczek get the American "bounce" playing at home?

Pick: Bautista Agut

Complete order of play can be found here.