There are three more matches scheduled on day two of the WTA Elite Trophy in Zhuhai. Madison Keys is seeking a response after losing her first match on the opening day. As always, we at LWOT predict the outcome of all the matches. But who will secure a vital win?
WTA Elite Trophy Day 2 Predictions
Zheng Qinwen vs Donna Vekic
Head-to-head: Zheng 1-0 Vekic
Donna Vekic reached a final on the grass courts of Berlin in June, but she has badly struggled since. The Croatian needs a dramatic improvement in her level to have a chance of finishing the season on a high. Unfortunately, this is a very difficult challenge. Zheng Qinwen won the title in Zhengzhou at her last tournament, and will play in home conditions once again. Vekic is powerful and dangerous when she does find her range. However, all the recent evidence indicates that a Zheng victory is very likely at the WTA Elite Trophy.
Prediction: Zheng in 2
Barbora Krejcikova vs Daria Kasatkina
Head-to-head: Krejcikova 3-1 Kasatkina
Barbora Krejcikova was in action on the opening day, and looked very impressive in a straight sets triumph against Magda Linette. In addition, Krejcikova easily overcame Daria Kasatkina less than two weeks ago during her run to the final in Zhengzhou. These are ominous signs for the Russian. The courts are fast in Zhuhai, and Kasatkina will hope she can effectively redirect the pace of Krejcikova’s shots. However, a more likely outcome is Kasatkina being overwhelmed by the power of the former French Open champion’s groundstrokes in the quick conditions. Expect Krejcikova to prevail again, but Kasatkina is a fighter and may at least claim a set on this occasion.
Prediction: Krejcikova in 3
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Madison Keys vs Caroline Garcia
Head-to-head: Keys 4-1 Garcia
Madison Keys has won the last four meetings between these two. This is somewhat surprising, since both women have very similar games based around big serving and powerful groundstrokes. The American could have a slight mental advantage due to their head-to-head record. Nonetheless, Caroline Garcia gets the edge at the WTA Elite Trophy. The Frenchwoman has competed in many tournaments since the US Open, despite a mostly underwhelming season. By contrast, Keys has only played two matches since the dramatic US Open semifinal loss she endured, including her loss on day 1 of this event to Beatriz Haddad Maia. Garcia seems more motivated right now, and that will likely help her beat Keys this time.
Prediction: Garcia in 2
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
