Elena Rybakina and Karolina Muchova take on their first matches at the US Open 2024 in New York. Our panelists offer their predictions for every match.
Elena Rybakina vs Destanee Aiava
Jim: It hasn’t been the best build up to the US Open for Elena Rybakina, but the Kazakh’s chances can never be discounted thanks to her thunderous serve and power from the back of the court. This should be a comfortable day at the office for Rybakina. Rybakina in 2
Jordan: It will be interesting to observe how Rybakina reacts in her first match since parting with her longtime coach Stefano Vukov. Aiava was very impressive during the qualifying stage and could make it tough for the Kazakhstani. The former Wimbledon champion should still have too much class for her over three sets. Rybakina in 3
Karolina Muchova vs Katie Volynets
Jim: Karolina Muchova would surely have accomplished even more had she had more luck with injuries. But when the Czech is healthy, she is a force to be reckoned with. Katie Volynets is an excellent competitor, but she’s not in Muchova’s class. Muchova in 3
Jordan: Volynets has beaten some top players this year, but the last few tournaments saw her level drop for the first time in 2024. Muchova is still not at her best since returning from a long injury a couple of months ago. However, the variety she possesses is a good way of disrupting Volynets’ consistent hitting. Muchova in 3
Liudmila Samsonova vs Wang Qiang
Jim: Liudmila Samsonova should win this match. She comes into the match in solid form, the conditions suit her style of play, and her opponent Wang Qiang has been playing indifferently. Samsonova in 2
Jordan: Samsonova played well in her two events before the US Open, reaching the quarterfinals in Toronto and Cincinnati. Wang is unlikely to cope with her opponent’s serving and flat groundstrokes. The 16th seed to progress comfortably. Samsonova in 2
Cristina Bucsa vs Sara Errani
Jim: This is a tough match to call. But given Cristina Bucsa’s indifferent recent form on the singles court and Sara Errani’s considerable experience (which includes a semifinal showing in New York, albeit 12 years ago), don’t be surprised to see the Italian nick this one. Errani in 3
Jordan: Expect long rallies between the two. Bucsa hits her shots flat but without much power, while Errani’s are loopier with even less speed. I trust Bucsa more on a hard court at this late stage of Errani’s career. Bucsa in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
