It promises to be another exciting day at Wimbledon as the first-round action concludes. As ever, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for the 32 matches on the schedule in SW19, including Elena Rybakina vs Lois Boisson, Madison Keys vs Kayla Day, Iga Swiatek vs Taylor Townsend, Elina Svitolina vs Daria Snigur, Amanda Anisimova vs Lina Gjorcheska, Serena Williams vs Maya Joint, and Alexandra Eala vs Renata Zarazua. But who will advance to the second round?
Wimbledon Day 2 Predictions
Linda Noskova vs Ella Seidel
Zain: Ella Seidel has the aggressive game that could translate well to grass, but her grass-court season so far has not been confidence-inspiring, as she has lost three matches and won only one. Against Linda Noskova, another player who relies on aggressive hitting but at a much higher level, I expect the Czech to have all the answers as she reaches the second round quite comfortably.
Prediction: Noskova in 2
Ilemona: Noskova’s aggressive style continues to translate well onto faster courts, and she has looked increasingly comfortable on grass. Seidel has enjoyed a strong rise through the rankings, but Noskova’s ability to take time away from opponents should make the difference.
Prediction: Noskova in 2
Jordan: Noskova generally prefers slower courts to impose her powerful game and avoid being rushed. The crafty Seidel will try to disrupt her by getting a lot of balls into play. I have a feeling that an upset is on the cards in this one.
Prediction: Seidel in 3
Clara Tauson vs Maria Sakkari
Zain: Clara Tauson had arguably the upset of the tournament last year, when she took out Rybakina with her big hitting. At her best, Maria Sakkari could cause some damage in this match-up with her counterpunching. But she is far removed from that level, and on grass, a surface where she has not had many positive results, I expect Tauson to get the victory here.
Prediction: Tauson in 2
Ilemona: Tauson’s powerful serve and forehand make her a genuine threat on grass, particularly when she is striking the ball cleanly. Sakkari’s athleticism will keep plenty of rallies alive, but Tauson has shown more confidence on this surface recently.
Prediction: Tauson in 3
Jordan: Sakkari will need to successfully absorb much powerful hitting from her opponent to prevail. On grass, which is the Greek’s weakest surface, I just do not think that is likely to happen. Tauson’s serve could also prove decisive.
Prediction: Tauson in 2
Elise Mertens vs Laura Siegemund
Zain: Both these players like to dictate play from the baseline, with Elise Mertens using her topspin groundstrokes and Laura Siegemund implementing a slice-heavy style that is not seen too often on tour. Ultimately, on grass, I think Siegemund’s style can still pay off, and that is why I am backing her to grind out a win here.
Prediction: Siegemund in 3
Ilemona: Siegemund’s slice and variety can frustrate almost anyone on grass, making this a fascinating tactical battle. Mertens has handled this matchup well in the past, and her ability to remain patient without losing aggression should help her come through again.
Prediction: Mertens in 2
Jordan: Siegemund was a surprise quarterfinalist last year, while Mertens usually performs very well in the opening couple of rounds at Grand Slams. Despite Siegemund’s heroics last year, I feel more confident about the steadier Mertens’s chances of settling straight into a Grand Slam.
Prediction: Mertens in 2
Jasmine Paolini vs Robin Montgomery
Zain: Once a finalist here at Wimbledon, Jasmine Paolini has finally shown some cracks in her baseline game this year and has fallen off the level she produced over the last two seasons. While her baseline game can still be enough here, I think Robin Montgomery has the offensive package to trouble the Italian and pull off the upset.
Prediction: Montgomery in 3
Ilemona: Montgomery possesses the power to hit through opponents, but grass has become a much more comfortable surface for Paolini over the last couple of seasons. Her improved movement and ability to counterpunch should allow her to work her way into the match.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Jordan: Paolini cannot afford any complacency here. Montgomery’s powerful serve and flat shots mean grass suits her well. That does not stop Paolini from being the more likely winner, though.
Prediction: Paolini in 3
Main photo credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
