It should be another exciting day of tennis at WTA Osaka. As always, we here at LWOT predict every match on the slate in Osaka, but who will book their spot in the next round in Japan?
WTA Osaka Day 4 Predictions
Ann Li vs Rebecca Sramkova
Head-to-head: Li 2-0 Sramkova
Both players won comfortably in their opening matches. Ann Li was particularly impressive in her 6-4 6-0 victory against Varvara Gracheva. The American has caused Rebecca Sramkova some real problems with her heavy forehand in their previous meetings – both of which have ended in a Li win. Although the Slovakian usually plays best on hard courts, Li’s playing style might give her a slight edge.
Prediction: Li in 3
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Elise Mertens vs Tereza Valentova
Head-to-head: first meeting
Tereza Valentova’s 6-1 6-2 victory against Alexandra Eala was the most impressive performance of the tournament so far. Elise Mertens’ ability to use variety could be crucial in this matchup. Alexandra Eala struggled to break the Czech’s rhythm effectively, but the more experienced Mertens is backed to win because she is among the best at changing the pace and disrupting opponents.
Prediction: Mertens in 3
Marie Bouzkova vs Viktorija Golubic
Head-to-head: Bouzkova 3-2 Golubic
Viktroija Golubic hammered Marie Bouzova in Jiangxi during last year’s Asian swing. However, that was caused more by how poorly Bouzkova played than by any specific weakness against Golubic’s playing style. Bouzkova will likely be more resilient in the rallies than Bianca Andreescu, who is still trying to find form after injury issues, was against Golubic in the opening round. The Czech’s level is generally slightly higher and she is slightly more reliable than Golubic’s.
Prediction: Bouzkova in 2
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Leylah Fernandez vs Dalma Galfi
Head-to-head: first meeting
Dalma Galfi defeated Alycia Parks in the previous round, who has now lost seven consecutive matches without winning a set. Leylah Fernandez will almost certainly be a much more significant challenge. Both players take the ball early and try to rush the opponents from the baseline. Fernandez, who often plays her best tennis during the Asian swing, is better at doing that when her game clicks.
Prediction: Fernandez in 2
Main photo credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
