Caroline Wozniacki against Elina Svitolina was an instant head-turner in the 2024 WTA ASB Classic draw in Auckland. In the past they’ve battled against each other on massive stages like the Toronto final or twice at the year-end championships, now they’re both trying to rebuild their careers after periods of inactivity. We also look at the rest of the day’s matches in a separate article. Who do you think will come out on top?
WTA Auckland Day 2 Predictions
McCartney Kessler vs Lulu Sun
Head-to-head: First meeting
We haven’t had many chances to watch McCartney Kessler at this level before, but this swing is a wonderful opportunity for her and strong results around October last year earned her the USTA wildcard for the Australian Open. Just like Lulu Sun, the American made it through the qualifying at this event. Her performances in the December WTA 125s were very strong though and it seems like the 24-year-old might be on an upward trajectory after wrapping up her collegiate career.
Prediction: Kessler in 2
Tereza Martincova vs Varvara Gracheva
Head-to-head: First meeting
These two have recently faced each other in an exhibition match in France with Tereza Martincova claiming the win 7-5 6-2. That match was held indoors though and while it’s not a big difference, it seems like these outdoor conditions in Auckland should level the playing field more. It still looks close on paper and with Martincova already having two wins under her belt in the qualifying, it’s probably enough to tip the scales in her favor. Just barely.
Prediction: Martincova in 3
Elena-Gabriela Ruse vs Emma Raducanu
Head-to-head: First meeting
Emma Raducanu will play her first match since Stuttgart in April, so it’s really hard to know what to expect here. The 2021 US Open champion has been speaking in interviews about being ready and rediscovering her love for tennis, but we won’t truly know what shape she’s in until we see her play. It’s her first match back though and while she still has the talent to rock the world, an in-form opponent like Elena-Gabriela Ruse won’t back down easily at this point in time.
Prediction: Ruse in 3
Caroline Wozniacki vs Elina Svitolina
Head-to-head: Svitolina 4-1
That’s quite a throwback as these two used to be ranked among the top 10 in the world and faced each other five times between 2016 and 2018. Elina Svitolina has dominated the matchup and she generally owns a very good record against fellow defense-oriented players. That still holds up many years later, especially if she can find that more aggressive version of her game that was so exciting to watch last year. They both haven’t played since the US Open and this will be quite the physical workout for them.
Prediction: Svitolina in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
