Thirteen matches are scheduled for Day 2 of the 2022 WTA Credit One Charleston Open. In one of the most exciting clashes of the day, Jessica Pegula takes on Jasmine Paolini. Who do you think will make the next round?
WTA Charleston Day 2 Predictions
Elena-Gabriela Ruse vs Hailey Baptiste
Head-to-head: First meeting
Two very talented players who could be on the verge of a breakout run. Elena-Gabriela Ruse is the one with more experience at this level and the Romanian has already scored a couple of stunning wins this year, including over Paula Badosa in Dubai. Hailey Baptiste is four years younger but also locked a few good main tour runs in 2022 thus far. While the American will enjoy the support of the crowd, Ruse’s powerful game can take away most of her assets if the 24-year-old plays well.
Prediction: Ruse in 3
Alison Riske vs Caty McNally
Head-to-head: Riske 2-0
They played less than a month ago at Indian Wells, with Alison Riske taking a rather lopsided meeting 6-0 6-4. It really feels like the 31-year-old is hitting her form right now, especially as she pulled off a couple of very solid runs at the Sunshine Double. Her clay-court results in the past haven’t been great but the same goes for Caty McNally, who also lacks some experience on the surface, pretty much only ever succeeding on it in doubles. It might not be as comfortable as Riske’s two head-to-head wins, but the results should remain the same.
Prediction: Riske in 2
Jessica Pegula vs Jasmine Paolini
Head-to-head: 3-0
Two players who have recently transcended their games to new heights. While Jasmine Paolini is often associated with a knack for clay-courts, the unique green surface in Charleston shouldn’t grant her a big advantage in that regard, hard-courters often do well here. Jessica Pegula has reached the third round of this tournament twice in the past, but she hasn’t played it since establishing herself as a player of the caliber she is right now. It’s going to be a short turnaround from Miami, but as her semifinal run included two retirements, her fitness shouldn’t be under a question mark.
Prediction: Pegula in 3
Main Photo from Getty.
