Pouring and Boring

It's interesting that the USOpen began with hurricane woes, but somehow dodged rain complications until the second week. The women's quarterfinals fell back two days but are finally underway with fans eager to see which players have stayed sharp through all the waiting.

While the entire draw has seen a variety of surprising exits, the true stunner story of the tournament is the bracket's lowest quarter where Pennetta and Kerber, two unlikely champions, have clawed their way to a birth in the elite eight. Here's a look at what's happening, what's ahead, and what the women of the WTA did to pass time during the delays.

Zvonareva v. Stosur

Maybe the most logical matchup of the four quarterfinals, the winner of Zvonareva and Stosur is favored to makes this year's USOpen final. The match is currently in progress as I write, and, like I expected, the contest will likely demand greatness from both women. So far, Stosur has the edge and considering the head-to-head (Stosur leads 7-1...) she is the favorite for victory. Not so fast, though, says the Russian who made the final here last year.

Prediction: Stosur

Kerber v. Pennetta

At the start of the tournament no one would have guessed to see this quarterfinal match. Pennetta has been a steady WTA competitor for years while Kerber has floated in and out of the top 50, but neither woman has done anything too fantastic in their singles career thus far. Both, however are vying for their opportunity to make their mark this year in New York. It's a toss up, but if Pennetta has recovered from the physical ware and tear she has endured and if she plays as steady as she did against Sharapova and Peng, she will reach the semis.

Prediction: Pennetta

S. Williams v. Pavlyuchenkova

Another match that's currently in progress, Serena will be looking to takedown young Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in her question for grand slam singles title number 14. Surprisingly, Pavluchenkova is leading by a break (and now the break back...), but we all know Serena is up for any contest. Pavlyuchenkova is strong, steady and has a lot of weapons to her game, but her lack of big stage experience might weigh her down.

Prediction: S. Williams

Wozniacki v. Petkovic

Another tight matchup, world no. 1 Caroline Wozniacki will look to soften the heavy blows of Germany's Andrea Petkovic. It's evident that Wozniacki has upped her play since facing two awkward losses in the USOpen series, but will that hold true against her second big-striking opponent in a row? Petkovic wants to bring a slam trophy home, and she has no problem beating big players in order to do so.

Prediction: Wozniacki

There's no rain in sight from here on out, tennis fans, so be sure to keep on eye on all the happens. Our facebook page will be updating with results and our twitter account will have frequent scores updates.

Also, be sure to check out the USOpen's latest video about players keeping busy during the storms.

-Kedzie Teller, ITB Senior Editor