Just two seeded players are left in the quarterfinal round of the 2020 WTA Top Seed Open in Lexington, Kentucky. The first seed, Serena Williams, endured some tough battles on the way. Will she be able to march on in Friday’s quarterfinals?
WTA Lexington Quarterfinal Predictions
Catherine Bellis vs Jil Teichmann
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both ladies made slight upsets on Thursday, defeating their higher ranked opponents with relative ease. Catherine Bellis was once regarded as one of the great American prospects. After 18 moths out of the game due to injuries, she finally seems to be back on the right track. Both will look to take control of the rallies but Bellis should do it with much more consistency than her flat-hitting opponent.
Prediction:: Bellis in 3
Jennifer Brady vs Marie Bouzkova
Head-to-head: First meeting
Jennifer Brady has been sublime so far in this event, blowing out Heather Watson and Magda Linette. The American found a lot of confidence in the latter days of the World TeamTennis exhibition and is utilising her aggressive forehand beautifully to dictate the rallies. Marie Bouzkova had a breakthrough just before the pandemic, finishing runner-up in Monterrey. Her wins over Johanna Konta and Anna Blinkova here prove that it wasn’t a one-off. However, it is unlikely that Bouzkova will have what it takes to stop Brady if the American is just as brilliant from the forehand side as she’s been this week.
Prediction: Brady in 3
Cori Gauff vs Ons Jabeur
Head-to-head: First meeting
The expected blockbuster of Gauff against Sabalenka was rather disappointing, with both ladies presenting an error-ridden game. The American was stronger mentally and it’s mostly that to which she owes her place in the quarterfinals. Jabeur was down a set against in-form Olga Govortsova but ultimately disrupted her opponent’s rhythm with her backhand slice and regained control. Gauff has been really unconvincing so far and if Jabeur can take advantage of her weaker forehand side.
Prediction: Jabeur in 3
Serena Williams vs Shelby Rogers
Head-to-head: First meeting
After two rather uninspiring performances, Serena has got herself another tricky opponent. Shelby Rogers did very well to stop the run of 17-year-old Leylah Annie Fernandez, taking down the youngster in straight sets. The 23-time Grand Slam champion was almost down an out against both Bernarda Pera and her own sister, Venus, yet raised her game when needed.
Prediction: Williams in 2
Main Photo from Getty.
