It promises to be an excellent WTA Toronto final. US women already made history at the tournament on Day 4, and an American champion is guaranteed in the final matchup between Jessica Pegula and Amanda Anisimova. Defending champion Pegula hopes to win her third WTA-1000 title, while Anisimova is making her first appearance in a final at WTA-1000 level. We at LWOT give our prediction and analysis for the match in this article. But which woman do you think will win the title?
WTA Toronto Final Prediction
Jessica Pegula vs Amanda Anisimova
Head-to-head: Pegula 2-0 Anisimova
Pegula loves this tournament more than any other on the calendar, reaching at least the semifinal in all her appearances. She did not drop a set on her way to the final in Toronto, beating Karolina Pliskova, Ashlyn Krueger, Peyton Stearns, and Diana Shnaider. Anisimova’s run to the final has been more unexpected. Aside from reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open, she mostly struggled since returning this year from a hiatus. However, she stormed to the final by overcoming Caroline Dolehide, Daria Kasatkina, Anna Kalinskaya, Aryna Sabalenka, and Emma Navarro. The only set she has lost so far was in the semifinal against Navarro.
It will be interesting to observe how Pegula approaches this matchup strategically. Anisimova possesses one of the most powerful games in women’s tennis and will not deviate from that hard-hitting style. Pegula will undoubtedly face rallies where she needs to soak up pressure. However, consistently being on the defensive and giving Anisimova time on her shots is not a viable strategy. Her younger compatriot thrives most when she is not rushed on her formidable groundstrokes.
Two main factors are likely to decide this matchup. Firstly, Pegula will need to manage a high first-serve percentage since Anisimova has been stepping in and crashing slow serves throughout the tournament. The American No. 2 also needs to redirect Anisimova’s shots with enough pace to keep her off-balance and mix in some variety to stop her from finding rhythm.
Overall, I trust Pegula will find a way to retain her title. Although the 30-year-old does not possess blistering power, her groundstrokes have slightly more pace than other adept defensive players Anisimova has faced, such as Kasatkina and Navarro, which could make the difference. Pegula’s greater experience in WTA-1000 finals may also prove pivotal.
Prediction: Pegula in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
