The Montreal Open kicks off with a stellar field of women including top seed Aryna Sabalenka and second seed and defending champion Bianca Andreescu. After an injury absence, Simona Halep will take the court. Not competing in Canada are World #1 Ash Barty, Naomi Osaka, Sofia Kenin, Iga Swiatek, and Gold Medal winner Belinda Bencic.
Here’s a look at four of the Day 1 matches. We also have predictions for matches featuring Paula Badosa and Magda Linette.
Montreal Open Day 1 Predictions
Jelena Ostapenko vs Katerina Siniakova
Head to head: Ostapenko 0-1 Siniakova
An interesting matchup between two players with very different styles. Ostapenko’s all or nothing, hard-hitting style can lead her to great heights or can leave her wanting. It seems there’s nothing in-between with the Latvian. When Ostapenko is on, she can paint the lines and power past nearly anyone. But, on those off days, the unforced error count skyrockets. So, which version of Ostapenko will show up tomorrow?
Siniakova has been in relatively good form in singles, but she hasn’t had quite the level of success she’s enjoyed on the doubles court. Yet, the Czech has reached the semifinals in Parma, and was the finalist in Bad Homburg. Alongside Barbora Krjecikova, Siniakova took home the gold in Tokyo. Her consistent play and ability to end points on her terms will prove a challenge for Ostapenko if the Lativan is having an off day.
Prediction: Ostapenko in 3
Tereza Martincova vs Amanda Anisimova
Head to head: Martincova 0-1 Anisimova
Tereza Martincova and Amanda Anisimova both reached their main draw berth through qualifying rounds. Martincova had an easier go, winning both matches in straight sets. Anisimova struggled against Maddison Inglis, dropping the second set 1-6. Anisimova has so much talent albeit underutilized as of late. I think she’ll hit a streak, returning to the easy power and redirection which led her to a winning form. Will it happen in Montreal? I think it just may.
Prediction: Anisimova in 2
Maria Sakkari vs Marie Buozkova
Head to head: Sakkari 1-0 Bouzkova
Maria Sakkari is now ranked World #19, thanks to a number of deep runs in 2021, including her semifinal run at the French Open. The Greek is a strong player and incredibly fit – able to go the distance. She continues to impress with a number of wins over Top 10 players.
Bouzkova is on a four match losing streak. And, I expect Sakkari to hand her the fifth.
Prediction: Sakkari in 2
Anastasia Potapova vs Shelby Rogers
Head to head: First meeting
Potapova should have some confidence after her straight sets win in qualifiers over Kristina Mladenovic. Some familiarity with the courts and conditions sure doesn’t hurt either. In the battle of two out of form players, Potapova gets the edge with her qualifying bouts.
Prediction: Potapova in 2
Main Photo from Getty Images
