The Australian Open is over after Jannik Sinner’s memorable run to a first Grand Slam title. But the WTA Tour starts again, with the 250 event in Hua Hin. There are seven matches scheduled on Day 1 of the tournament. Three of those contests are predicted in this article, including Paula Badosa’s match on Centre Court. The rest of the matches are in a separate article. Which players do you expect to win?
WTA Hua Hin Day 1 Predictions
Dalma Galfi vs Ajla Tomljanovic
Head-to-head: First meeting
Tomljanovic is seeking to rediscover her best form in 2024. There were positive signs of that at the Australian Open. She defeated Petra Martic in the opening round, before losing a close match to the Adelaide International champion Jelena Ostapenko. Galfi had her best season to date last year. It included a surprise run to the third-round of Wimbledon. However, the Hungarian suffered a loss in form after that, and is ranked outside the Top 100. I expect Tomljanovic’s more consistent tennis to come through with relative ease.
Prediction: Tomljanovic in 2
Wang Xinyu vs Emina Bektas
Head-to-head: First meeting
Wang needs to be wary in this one. She is the higher ranked player Bektas had an extraordinary rise last year. She ended 2023 inside the Top 100 after being ranked outside the Top 300 at the end of 2022. However, Wang’s game at its best is still the more complete and effective of the two players. Although both players like to play aggressively, I think the Chinese player’s style can withstand aggression from her opponent more effectively than Bektas. The American is more likely to feel rushed on her groundstrokes than Wang is.
Prediction: Wang in 2
Paula Badosa vs Lanlana Tararudee
Head-to-head: First meeting
Badosa lost in the third-round of the Australian Open. However, it was still a very encouraging tournament for the Spaniard. She is returning this season after a long time out with injury, and has looked sharp so far. Badosa is not one to be complacent, but in truth, this should be a comfortable opening match for her. Wildcard Tararudee will have a home crowd to inspire her in Hua Hin. Yet, she is barely ranked inside the Top 300 currently, and a solid competitor like Badosa is unlikely to be a victim of an upset.
Prediction: Badosa in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
