All the WTA Toronto Round of 16 matches are scheduled for Day 4. An intriguing matchup between the US Open champion Coco Gauff and the recent Olympic silver medalist Diana Shnaider is one of the contests on the slate. We at LWOT predict all the WTA Toronto matches here and in a separate article, including Aryna Sabalenka vs Katie Boulter. But which players do you think will advance to the quarterfinals?
WTA Toronto Day 4 Predictions
Amanda Anisimova vs Anna Kalinskaya
Head-to-head: First meeting
This is an entirely different matchup to Anisimova’s last round. She defeated Daria Kasatkina, whose lack of firepower gave her ample time to wind up her powerful groundstrokes. Kalinskaya strikes the ball harder and flatter. Anisimova has a chance if she can adjust to Kalinskaya’s pace. However, rushing the American is the best way to beat her, and Kalinskaya is capable of doing that on the quick Toronto courts.
Prediction: Kalinskaya in 2
Jelena Ostapenko vs Taylor Townsend
Head-to-head: Ostapenko 1-0 Townsend
2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko had a somewhat lucky escape against Paula Badosa. The Spaniard served for the match in the third set before her level suddenly and rapidly declined. The Latvian needs to be better against Townsend, who usually produces her best tennis in front of home American crowds. Both women play aggressively, meaning this should be fun to watch. Ostapenko is backed to improve enough to beat Townsend narrowly, but that is not predicted with confidence.
Prediction: Ostapenko in 3
Victoria Azarenka vs Peyton Stearns
Head-to-head: Azarenka 1-0 Stearns
These two had an epic battle in Miami in March. Azarenka won that long and grueling match 7-5 3-6 6-4. Stearns will be hopeful of hitting through the two-time Australian Open champion more successfully in Toronto, where the courts are faster than in Miami. However, redirecting pace is one of Azarenka’s greatest strengths. The Belarusian’s ability to soak up pressure makes her a slight favourite in another contest that is hard to call.
Prediction: Azarenka in 3
Coco Gauff vs Diana Shnaider
Head-to-head: First meeting
Shniader won her opening two rounds against Harriet Dart and Magdalena Frech in deciding set tiebreaks. Beating Gauff in her third match in three days after those mammoth efforts is a tough ask. Gauff was far below her best against Yafan Wang, which may give Shnaider some hope. Shnaider’s forehand needs to dominate throughout the match to give herself a chance of causing an upset. The US Open champion should have too much overall, though.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey – USA TODAY Sports
