The top two seeds, Madison Keys and Sloane Stephens, have already tumbled out of the WTA Washington Open. Day 3 promises close matches between fierce competitors hoping to take advantage of a more open draw.
WTA Washington Open Day 3 Predictions
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Jessica Pegula vs Iga Swiatek
Jessica Pegula is having a strong run at the Citi Open. Her singles wins are equaled by her successes on the doubles court with partner Shelby Rogers. The duo have reached the quarterfinals. Pegula shows no signs of fatigue and the doubles play should help keep her sharp for singles. Her opponent, Iga Swiatek is sitting at a career high ranking of 61. Both women are playing some of the best and most consistent tennis of their respective careers this summer. Pegula retains a slight edge.
Pegula in 3.
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Monica Puig vs Anna Kalinskaya
Monica Puig enters this match the heavy favorite. She has won an Olympic gold medal and is working with Kamau Murray who was Sloane Stephens’ coach during her stratospheric 2017. Anna Kalinskaya has mostly had success in doubles. Puig’s experience and skill should see her through to a straightforward victory.
Puig in 2.
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Hailey Baptiste vs Kristina Mladenovic
Mladenovic may have the experience and pedigree, but Baptiste, who won her first WTA match to reach the round of 16 at the Citi Open, will have the support of the crowd. It would be a thrilling feat to back up her maiden win with a quarterfinal showing at a home country tournament. Mladenovic has been iffy in singles for the past few years, though at times excellent. Baptiste, only 17, displayed abilities beyond her years in her straight sets first round win over second seed Madison Keys.
Baptiste in 3.
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Lauren Davis vs Sofia Kenin
Kenin may not be the flashiest player, far from it, but she will likely grind Lauren Davis into submission without too much difficulty. Davis has a watchable, aggressive style of tennis that can be highly effective — her memorable loss to Simona Halep in Australia last year proved her abilities and fighting spirit — but against a player like Kenin she is unlikely to prevail.
Kenin in 2.
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