Jessica Pegula has continued her strong performances since losing at the US Open to Madison Keys. She has reached her second final since Flushing Meadows in Seoul. But the American faces a stiff challenge to lift the title in Korea. Yuan Yue’s level has been excellent throughout the tournament and she will believe that a first WTA title is possible. As always, we at LWOT provide our analysis and prediction for the final. Which player do you think will win the title in Seoul?
WTA Seoul Final Prediction
Jessica Pegula vs Yuan Yue
Head-to-head: Pegula 1-0 Yuan Yue
The rankings difference between these two could make a comfortable Pegula win seem likely. Yuan went into this tournament ranked outside the Top 100, while Pegula has been firmly inside the Top 10 for a long period of time. But Yuan should not be ruled out easily. The Chinese player’s fast baseline hitting has been excellent throughout the week in Seoul. Yuan’s performance in the quarterfinal against Marie Bouzkova was particularly impressive. She combined technical quality with holding her nerve to win two tight sets against the Czech.
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However, there are two problems for Yuan in this matchup. The first is just how good Pegula’s level is generally. But the American’s playing style could also be problematic. Yuan likes to hit hard and consistently from the baseline to attempt to wear down her opponents. Unfortunately, Pegula usually thrives against that style. It allows the American #2 to use her hand-eye coordination, which is one of the best on the WTA Tour.
Pegula can sometimes struggle against two types of opponents. Those who effectively use variety or have superior movement to Pegula. Yuan does not possess either of these factors in comparison to the American. She has to hope that Pegula is nervous and is unable to find her range. Pegula did get tight in her last final a few weeks against Veronika Kudermetova, which may give Yuan some encouragement.
It is unlikely that will happen again though. Yuan deserves immense credit for having a career-best tournament. But Pegula’s quality and style is very likely to see her lift the title in Seoul, and probably in straight sets.
Prediction: Pegula in 2
Main photo credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
