The stage is set for an entertaining first day at the US Open with 20 matches on the slate. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the slate, including Jessica Pegula vs Mayar Sherif, Emma Raducanu vs Ena Shibahara, Jasmine Paolini vs Destanee Aiava, and Aryna Sabalenka vs Rebeka Masarova. But who will book their spot in the round of 64?
US Open Day 1 Predictions
Victoria Azarenka vs Hina Inoue
Ilemona: Victoria Azarenka’s history in New York speaks for itself, and she’s been solid in her hard-court tune-ups. Hina Inoue is still in the early stages of her career and hasn’t faced many opponents of this caliber. The gap in experience here could prove hard to bridge.
Prediction: Azarenka in 2
Zain: Three-time US Open finalist Victoria Azarenka brings far too much experience and intensity for Miyu Inoue to handle. Expect the veteran to lean on her big serve to come out on top in a match closer than expected.
Prediction: Azarenka in 3
Jordan: This will be Azarenka’s first appearance since Wimbledon. The 36-year-old could have been particularly vulnerable to an upset, but facing a player making her Grand Slam main draw debut should help. The three-time US Open runner-up’s experience and class is backed to prevail.
Prediction: Azarenka in 2
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Veronika Kudermetova vs Janice Tjen
Ilemona: Veronika Kudermetova’s season has been inconsistent, but she remains a dangerous ball striker on hard courts. Tjen doesn’t yet have much tour-level experience, and adapting to the pace of this matchup will be a big ask. If Kudermetova keeps her focus, she should find her way through.
Prediction: Kudermetova in 2
Zain: Veronika Kudermetova’s firepower and tour-level experience should overwhelm Faye Tjen. Unless her consistency wavers badly, expect a straightforward win.
Prediction: Kudermetova in 2
Jordan: Tjen’s three straight-set victories in qualifying were surprising. Recent Cincinnati Open semifinalist Kudermetova remains the favorite, but this could be closer than many expect. Tjen’s level in qualifying was very high.
Prediction: Kudermetova in 3
Caty McNally vs Jil Teichman
Ilemona: Caty McNally has been making steady progress, especially with her attacking style suited to hard courts. Teichmann has struggled for results most of this season and hasn’t looked comfortable on faster surfaces. That contrast gives McNally a good chance to dictate.
Prediction: McNally in 3
Zain: Caty McNally’s aggressive net play and home-crowd support give her the edge. Jil Teichmann’s variety can be tricky, but McNally should dictate with her backhand and advance.
Prediction: McNally in 3
Jordan: McNally will try to effectively implement her aggressive style. But Teichmann is an underrated player, with an ability to nullify attacking opponents. The Swiss can stop McNally and silence the home crowd if she defends near her best.
Prediction: Teichmann in 3
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Anastasia Potapova vs Zhu Lin
Ilemona: Anastasia Potapova’s game can be streaky, but her ability to hit through opponents makes her dangerous on this surface. Lin Zhu is a tricky competitor with solid results on hard courts, often able to extend rallies and frustrate opponents. This one has the makings of a close battle if both bring their best level.
Prediction: Potapova in 3
Zain: Anastasia Potapova’s offensive baseline game should be too strong for Lin Zhu, especially if she takes control early. Zhu’s steadiness might extend rallies, but Potapova has the heavier weapons to win.
Prediction: Potapova in 2
Jordan: Zhu plays her best tennis on hard courts, but she is still finding her feet after returning in June from several months out with an injury. However, Potapova has played poorly so far during the North American swing, and Zhu thrives most against players who award her time on hard courts. The favourable matchup might get the Chinese opponent over the line.
Prediction: Zhu in 3
Main photo credit: Danielle Parhizkaran-USA TODAY Sports
