It’s quarterfinal time at the WTA 1000 level event in Guadalajara, Mexico. There’s some interesting matchups to take a look at on Friday, most notably a clash between Coco Gauff and Victoria Azarenka. Who will advance to the semifinals?
WTA Guadalajara Quarterfinal Predictions
Jessica Pegula vs Sloane Stephens
H2H: Pegula 3-0.
Sloane Stephens is having another successful week in Mexico. Stephens has now won 8 consecutive matches in Guadalajara having claimed the title at the 250 level event at the same venue earlier this season. Stephens is coming off impressive straight sets wins over Belinda Bencic and Caroline Garcia but is unlikely to enjoy the same success against Jessica Pegula. Pegula has Stephens’ number, having won their three previous clashes and is one of the most consistent players on tour right now. I suspect Pegula will be too tough when it matters most.
Prediction: Pegula in 3
Marie Bouzkova vs Anna Kalinskaya
H2H: Bouzkova 1-0.
Marie Bouzkova secured another big win in the previous as she outlasted Liudmila Samsonova. Bouzkova has a great opportunity to reach the semifinals when she faces Anna Kalinskaya. Bouzkova is superior in most departments, a greater competitor and should be able to get the job done in this matchup.
Prediction: Bouzkova in 2
Maria Sakkari vs Veronika Kudermetova
H2H: Sakkari 2-1.
Maria Sakkari is finally getting her act together this week. Sakkari arrived in Guadalajara with some of her worst form in recent times but secured a notable three set win over Danielle Collins to progress to the quarterfinals. Another big test awaits Sakkari when she faces Veronika Kudermetova on Friday. Kudermetova has been one of the most consistent players this season, also one of the most improved. I’d give Kudermetova the edge. I still don’t trust Sakkari and expect Kudermetova to be a tough opponent for the Greek in these conditions.
Prediction: Kudermetova in 3
Coco Gauff vs Victoria Azarenka
H2H: First meeting.
An interesting first-time matchup between Cori Gauff and Victoria Azarenka. A future champion against a proven champion. Gauff has already clinched a spot at the upcoming WTA Finals, highlighting her excellence this season. Azarenka hasn’t had the greatest season by her standards, but remains a threat against most opponents. Gauff is the obvious choice here. The American’s superior fitness and athleticism are probably decisive factors in this matchup at this stage of their respective careers.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Main Photo from Getty.
