There is an outstanding entry list for the WTA Eastbourne International. Indeed, four Grand Slam finalists are amongst those in action on day one, and as always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match, including Leylah Fernandez vs Barbora Krejcikova. But who will advance at Devonshire Park?
WTA Eastbourne Day 1 Predictions
Magda Linette vs Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
Head-to-head: Pavlyuchenkova 3-0 Linette
This is Pavlycuchenkova’s first match on grass this year. Linette, who came through qualifying to reach the main draw in Eastbourne, lost in ‘S-Hertogenbosch to Robin Montgomery. The Pole has lost all of her previous matches against the Russian, although the pair have never met on grass. Despite this, I still expect Pavlyuchenkova to prevail once again. Even on a low-bouncing grass-court, Linette’s style suits the French Open runner-up. She will have some time to wind up her powerful groundstrokes and Linette’s athleticism is unlikely to be enough to keep her in the match.
Prediction: Pavlyuchenkova in 2
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Yuan Yue vs Anastasia Potapova
Head-to-head: first meeting
Anastasia Potapova had a solid run to the semifinal in Birmingham last week, including a victory against Barbora Krejcikova in the quarterfinal. She is a strong favourite against Yuan Yue. Although this year’s Austin champion is a very good player, she has a marked preference for hard courts. Potapova’s game is more adaptable to different surfaces, with her movement being particularly good on every surface she plays on. Her overall consistency should take her through to the next round in Eastbourne.
Prediction: Potapova in 2
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Jelena Ostapenko vs Greet Minnen
Head-to-head: Ostapenko 1-0 Minnen
This pair’s only previous meeting was at Wimbledon last year, which Jelena Ostapenko won easily in straight sets. At her best, the Latvian will simply have too much power for Greet Minnen. However, the Belgian will take confidence from two things. Firstly, her recent run to the quarterfinal in ‘S-Hertogenbosch. Secondly, Ostapenko’s surprising loss to Elisabetta Cocciaretto in the opening round in Birmingham. Overall, Ostapenko’s more imposing game is certainly the favourite to progress. Her own inconsistencies are more likely to stop her than Minnen in this matchup.
Prediction: Ostapenko in 2
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports:
