There was some unfortunate adverse weather on the first day of the WTA San Diego Open. But eventually much quality tennis was played for fans to enjoy. The line-up for the second day looks even stronger than the first. Home favourite and former Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin is one of the players in action. We at LWOT also have a separate article for the rest of the day’s matches in San Diego–including Beatriz Haddad Maia vs Leylah Fernandez. But which players do you think will advance to the next round?
WTA San Diego Day 2 Predictions
Magda Linette vs Marta Kostyuk
Head-to-head: First meeting
Linette got past the first round at the US Open, but in general has struggled for consistent form since that excellent run to the semifinal at the Australian Open. Kostyuk has beaten Maria Sakkari and Caroline Garcia this season. Hence it is clear how dangerous she can be when near her best. The Ukrainian was heavily beaten by Elena Rybakina in the first round at Flushing Meadows though. Although Kostyuk has an awkward style to play, I am going for Linette here. On a hard court she is capable of managing that better than any other surface.
Prediction: Linette in 2
Sloane Stephens vs Elise Mertens
Head-to-head: Stephens 1-1 Mertens
Stephens was quite unfortunate to lose in the first round of the US Open, playing a good match against Beatriz Haddad Maia, before narrowly losing out. It has not been the best season overall for the American though. Despite that, I am backing her here. Mertens is a tough and consistent competitor for anyone. She will make it tough for long periods, regardless of what the final score is. Expect many long rallies as well between two very good athletes. But in front of her home crowd I give Stephens a slight edge to avoid another harsh early exit at the San Diego Open. However, it is likely to be a tight battle.
Prediction: Stephens in 3
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Sofia Kenin vs Veronika Kudermetova
Head-to-head: Kenin 1-1 Kudermetova
It felt Kenin could be on the verge of a deep run in New York. The way she struck the ball in the first set against Daria Kasatkina was similar to her best tennis a few years ago. But she was not quite consistent enough to sustain it against a fighter like Kssatkina. I think she can win again at the San Diego Open if she takes the positives from her performance at the US Open. Sixth seed Kudermeotva has looked out of sorts during the American swing so far, including a shock loss to clay court specialist Bernarda Pera at Flushing Meadows. Her game style should also suit the hard hitting that Kenin always brings.
Prediction: Kenin in 2
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
