A fascinating WTA 1000 in Guadalajara is coming to a close and the semifinal matches still hold plenty of intrigue. Many fans would like to see Maria Sakkari pick up her second career title and others want Caroline Garcia or Sofia Kenin to find their form again. Don’t forget about Caroline Dolehide of course, who’s playing the best tournament of her career. We’ve made an attempt to predict who’ll be fighting for the title in Guadalajara.
WTA Guadalajara Semifinal Predictions
Sofia Kenin vs Caroline Dolehide
Head-to-head: Dolehide 2-1 Kenin
In isolation, Sofia Kenin has played well this season. She just hasn’t been able to put together runs of form, only peaking against certain opponents before crashing down to Earth the following match. That finally seems to have changed for the former Australian Open champion. A run to the final in San Diego has given way to the semifinals here in Guadalajara and, all of a sudden, Kenin’s looking as dangerous as ever.
It’s the WTA so there will likely be complications. Caroline Dolehide hasn’t made it to this stage by accident and will test Kenin with her ball-striking ability. She’s also playing with house money having comeback from three match points down in her quarterfinal against Martina Trevisan. This feels like Kenin’s moment, however, her chance to really start to challenge for the biggest titles on tour again.
Prediction: Kenin in 3
Maria Sakkari vs Caroline Garcia
Head-to-head: Garcia 3-1 Sakkari
Maria Sakkari recently talked about making semifinals in her career having played the tournament with and without nerves. The former is extremely exhausting whilst the latter leaves her fresh and raring to go–the difference between the two is stark when she’s turned up to play the penultimate round of tournaments. It looks as though she’s played without nerves so far, able to play short aggressive points without the burden of needing her forehand to hold up in longer rallies.
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This is therefore a seriously good opportunity for her. Caroline Garcia is finding some form again but the racket could be taken out of her hands if Sakkari plays the front foot tennis she’d prefer to. Keep in mind it was this event last year where Sakkari last made a final. Guadalajara could be the shot of adrenaline Sakkari’s needed all season.
Prediction: Sakkari in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
