There are eight blockbuster Round of 16 matches for fans to enjoy on Day 7 of the WTA Madrid Open. US Open champion Coco Gauff and 2022 Wimbledon winner Elena Rybakina are among the players featured in this article. As always, we at LWOT also predict all the other matches taking place, including Aryna Sabalenka vs Danielle Collins. But which players do you think will advance to the quarterfinals?
WTA Madrid Day 7 Predictions
Jelena Ostapenko vs Ons Jabeur
Head-to-head: Jabeur 2-2 Ostapenko
Jabeur is still far from her vintage best, but stringing two wins in a row together is important for her confidence. Expect a lot of entertaining tennis in this battle with Ostapenko, who has been in good form so far in Madrid. Overall, the Latvian is a slight favourite. Jabeur had sudden dips in her previous matches, but they did not cost her in two tight three-set wins. Ostapenko’s level is often unpredictable as well, but her powerful hitting is capable of seizing on any struggles that Jabeur is still enduring.
Prediction: Ostapenko in 3
Mirra Andreeva vs Jasmine Paolini
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both players were outstanding in the previous round. Andreeva beat current Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova in straight sets, while Paolini demolished Caroline Garcia. Overcoming a clay-court player as good as Paolini is a big challenge for 16-year-old Andreeva. She possesses the talent to do it, especially with her backhand. Serving well and not allowing the Italian’s forehand to dominate is her route to victory. However, Paolini’s better focus at this later stage of her career might be what decides what will undoubtedly be an entertaining contest.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Elena Rybakina vs Sara Bejlek
Head-to-head: First meeting
Bejlek has been the breakout player of the tournament. A comfortable victory against Ashlyn Krueger was the 18-year-old qualifier’s latest triumph. Can she shock the world No. 4? It is not impossible, since Bejlek proved she can soak up power against Anna Kalinskaya and Ashlyn Krueger. But at her best, Rybakina is a class above those players. Last week’s Stuttgart champion has won 13 consecutive matches on clay dating back to last season. It would be a major shock if the 18-year-old qualifier put an end to that streak.
Prediction: Rybakina in 2
Coco Gauff vs Madison Keys
Head-to-head: Gauff 2-2 Keys
It is great to see Keys playing well again, who has suffered with injuries since her heartbreaking US Open semifinal loss last year to Aryna Sabalenka. Her forehand is the most important shot in this matchup against her younger compatriot. She is capable of dominating exchanges with that shot if she finds her range and stops Gauff dictating with her backhand. Although Gauff has played well in her opening two matches, an upset is possible in this matchup. The slightly quicker clay in Madrid will also help Keys in her attempt to hit through Gauff’s defense.
Prediction: Keys in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
