Wimbledon countdown: Five women who have potential to lift the Venus Rosewater Dish

As the action gets under way at the All England Club this week, let us profile five women who have the potential to lift the Venus Rosewater Dish:

Lucie Safarova

A semi-finalist a year ago, Safarova reached the French Open final, toppling Maria Sharapova, Garbine Muguruza and Ana Ivanovic along the way. She pushed Serena Williams in the final and that performance should give her plenty of confidence.

Madison Keys

The American, 20, was picked as Williams’ natural successor by Chris Evert and John McEnroe. An Australian Open semi-finalist, Keys can prove them right with a favourable draw.

Karolina Pliskova

Her draw is not easy with a third-round tie against Samantha Stosur then Lucie Safarova, Maria Sharapova and Williams if the seeds hold. But the Czech, 23, has the weapons to down any player, including a rocket serve, which is invaluable on grass.

Timea Bacsinszky

The Swiss, 26, one of the most creative players on tour, reached the semis of the French Open. If she beats big-serving Sabine Lisicki in the third round, she could go far.

Angelique Kerber

One of a trio of players to win three titles this year, with Williams and Simona Halep, the German’s confidence this season was evident in the Birmingham final against Pliskova, who hit 52 winners.

More Wimbledon preview news:

– ‘Serena Slam’ firmly in sight for dominant Williams despite recent Wimbledon struggles

– Will latest crop of female players follow in the footsteps of past Wimbledon teenage stars?

– Poll: Who will win the 2015 Ladies’ Wimbledon singles title?

arizvi@thenational.ae

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Three trading apps to try

Sharad Nair recommends three investment apps for UAE residents:

For beginners or people who want to start investing with limited capital, Mr Nair suggests eToro. “The low fees and low minimum balance requirements make the platform more accessible,” he says. “The user interface is straightforward to understand and operate, while its social element may help ease beginners into the idea of investing money by looking to a virtual community.”
If you’re an experienced investor, and have $10,000 or more to invest, consider Saxo Bank. “Saxo Bank offers a more comprehensive trading platform with advanced features and insight for more experienced users. It offers a more personalised approach to opening and operating an account on their platform,” he says.
Finally, StashAway could work for those who want a hands-off approach to their investing. “It removes one of the biggest challenges for novice traders: picking the securities in their portfolio,” Mr Nair says. “A goal-based approach or view towards investing can help motivate residents who may usually shy away from investment platforms.”