The 2023 Guangzhou Open is coming back to the WTA Tour after four years, a break that was caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The first day of main draw action brings us six singles matches. In a battle of talented youngsters, Clara Tauson takes on Linda Fruhvirtova. Who do you think will come out on top?
WTA Guangzhou Day 1 Predictions
Claire Liu vs Diana Shnaider
Head-to-head: First meeting
Claire Liu saved her season with a few big results this summer, but she’s still not playing with the consistency that you’d generally expect from her. Meanwhile, Diana Shnaider definitely slowed down a bit from being one of the hottest prospects on the circuit at the beginning of the season. This sounds like a pretty even match and maybe having started her Asian swing a bit earlier can be an advantage for the Russian?
Prediction: Shnaider in 3
Harriet Dart vs Jule Niemeier
Head-to-head: Dart 1-0
Both of these players sitting deep outside the top 100 is quite strange, particularly Jule Niemeier. But that’s how streaky the German has been this year, going on long dry spells. Harriet Dart has been more consistent and had that nice grass-court swing. Niemeier’s big game should give her the advantage here, but there are no certainties with her 2023 form. If she can find her level though, Dart won’t really have the tools to respond.
Prediction: Niemeier in 3
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Clara Tauson vs Linda Fruhvirtova
Head-to-head: Tauson 1-0
After making the fourth round at the Australian Open, Linda Fruhvirtova lost her form completely and is currently struggling to lock up any wins (8-match losing streak). It’s kind of understandable though as the young Czech just wasn’t ready for this level of competition yet, despite her Chennai success last year. Clara Tauson is so much more imposing and should be taking this one, although watch out for the Dane’s recurring physical issues.
Prediction: Tauson in 2
Main Photo Credit: Eric Bolte – USA TODAY Sports
