We’re down to the semifinals in Guadalajara, but perhaps not with the four contenders you expected to see. Still, there should be plenty of entertaining tennis on semifinals day at the WTA Guadalajara Open. But who will book their place in the final?
WTA Guadalajara Open Semifinal Predictions
Eugenie Bouchard vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto
Head-to-head: first meeting
Eugenie Bouchard has demonstrated the power and accuracy of her inside-out forehand time and again this week. Almost every short ball Catherine McNally gave up in the last eight was punished by a cleverly angled winner from the Canadian’s racket. It was an impressive outing for Bouchard. The resurgent 27-year-old ran down drop shots, got back quickly for deft lobs and hit winners off running forehands. This is perhaps the best Bouchard has played in years. If she can maintain this level, the title is likely to be within reach.
Elisabetta Cocciaretto will not make it easy for Bouchard, however. The Italian has been exemplary on break point opportunities throughout the week at the WTA Guadalajara Open and in her quarterfinal clash against Lauren Davis, she converted on 83% of her break-point chances. Any deficiencies in Bouchard’s serve will give the qualifier the opening she needs. But, with Bouchard in such sharp form Cocciaretto surely will be hard pressed to match the former-world #5.
Prediction: Bouchard in 2
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Marie Bouzkova vs Sara Sorribes Tormo
Head-to-head: Sorribes Tormo 1-0 Bouzkova
There will be few surprises when doubles partners Marie Bouzkova and Sara Sorribes Tormo face off. It should be a match defined by strategy, with each player attempting to anticipate what their opponent will do with any given shot. Obviously, they’ve discussed strategy on the doubles court. But, how will that impact their semifinal bout?
The form Bouzkova picked up in Melbourne has followed her to the WTA Guadalajara Open. A few hiccups in her opener were an anomaly, with the Czech’s form having been rock solid otherwise. Combine her all-court game and solid groundstrokes with good movement, and it seems Bouzkova is destined for the title.
Sorribes Tormo is an exceptional counter-puncher and will likely force Bouzkova to play her very best tennis. Expect Bouzkova to find herself in uncomfortable positions. Additionally, the constant barrage of balls from the stellar retriever will force Bouzkova to go for too much, too soon. The Czech’s error count will rise, opening the door for the Spaniard. A protracted battle should be on the cards – as much mental as physical. But Bouzkova, who can produce unbelievable shots in the biggest moments, should have the edge.
Prediction: Bouzkova in 3
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