The 250 at WTA Prague is picking up momentum, as Day 2 features a packed slate of nine singles matches. There are plenty of local crowd favourites in action, with two-time Major champion Barbora Krejcikova returning to her home tournament. But that is far from all. As always, we here at LWOT will be predicting every match on Day 2, but who do you think will win?
WTA Prague Day 2 Predictions
Jana Kovackova vs Lanlana Tararudee
Head-to-head: First meeting
The key element of this match will be whether Lanlana Tararudee’s baseline game and court coverage can overcome Jana Kovackova’s aggressive style, headlined by her forehand. The young Czech, who has received a wildcard into the main draw of her home tournament, is still playing much of her tennis at the junior level. While this match will provide invaluable experience for her future, it is highly likely that Tararudee comes through on the strength of her greater experience.
Prediction: Tararudee in 2
Priscilla Hon vs Tereza Valentova
Head-to-head: First meeting
This matchup pits the experience of Priscilla Hon against the talent and youth of Tereza Valentova. Hon was fortunate to enter the main draw in Prague as a lucky loser, but it is likely that her tournament ends in the opening round. Valentova possesses the baseline game and ball quality needed to consistently pressure the Australian into making errors.
Prediction: Valentova in 2
Anna Blinkova vs Sara Bejlek
Head-to-head: Blinkova 1-1 Bejlek
Sara Bejlek has previously shown in this matchup that her court coverage, left-handed angles from the baseline, and serve can make life difficult for Anna Blinkova, who relies on flat, powerful hitting. However, Bejlek typically produces her best tennis on slower clay courts. On a hard court, I expect Blinkova to have more than enough firepower to come through this match.
Prediction: Blinkova in 3
Barbora Krejcikova vs Linda Fruhvirtova
Head-to-head: Krejcikova 2-0 Fruhvirtova
The match of the day sees recent Athens champion Barbora Krejcikova take on her compatriot Linda Fruhvirtova in an all-Czech clash in Prague. These two have faced each other in Prague before on clay, with Krejcikova winning that match comfortably. On a hard court, I do think Fruhvirtova’s flatter, more aggressive game can be more effective. However, provided there is no fatigue from her championship run in Athens, Krejcikova has all the baseline variety and tools needed to advance.
Prediction: Krejcikova in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
