Day 1 of the prestigious WTA Charleston Open contains some fascinating matches. 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin starts her campaign against compatriot Bernarda Pera in what promises to be a challenging matchup. As always, we here at LWOT predict all the action, including Caroline Dolehide vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto and Ann Li vs Anna Blinkova, but which players do you think will reach the next round?
WTA Charleston Open Day 1 Predictions
Harriet Dart vs Varvara Gracheva
Head-to-head: First meeting
The outcome of this match will likely depend on Gracheva’s level. While Dart is a dogged and determined competitor, she has been least comfortable on clay since her career began. Gracheva showed how good she can be on the dirt by reaching the fourth round of the 2024 French Open, but her level often fluctuates wildly. The good news for her is that this might be a match she can win with a scrappy performance.
Prediction: Gracheva in 2
Polina Kudermetova vs Irina-Camelia Begu
Head-to-head: Begu 1-0 Kudermetova
This is an interesting clash of generations. 21-year-old Kudermetova has catapulted up the rankings after strong results on the ITF circuit in the closing stages of 2024 and a surprising run to the final of the Brisbane International in the opening week of the season. 34-year-old Begu has been a very good clay court player throughout her career, but is not in her prime anymore. However, Kudermetova’s game is best suited to thriving on hard courts. She has some learning to do on clay, and Begu’s wilyness might get the best of the young star.
Prediction: Begu in 3
Sofia Kenin vs Bernarda Pera
Head-to-head: Pera 1-0 Kenin
Kenin will have had 11 days to come to terms with losing 0-6 0-6 to Coco Gauff at the Miami Open when this match begins. The former French Open finalist probably plays her best tennis on clay when everything is working, and she almost certainly needs a good performance in this matchup. Pera is most comfortable on clay and gets many balls back into play. Although Kenin possesses more class than her compatriot, she sometimes struggles against players with Pera’s style. Kenin is narrowly favored to win, but that is not predicted with much certainty.
Prediction: Kenin in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
