There is a packed schedule for Wednesday at the WTA Madrid Open, with 24 matches set to be played. Home hero Paula Badosa’s contest is one of four predicted in this article. As always, we at LWOT predict all the WTA matches in Madrid, including Donna Vekic vs Laura Siegemund, Naomi Osaka vs Greet Minnen, and Sloane Stephens vs Martina Trevisan. But which players do you think will win?
WTA Madrid Day 2 Predictions
Zhu Lin vs Victoria Jimenez Kasintseva
Head-to-head: first meeting
There is a huge gap in ranking between these two, with 18-year-old wildcard Victoria Jiminez Kasintseva ranked outside the top 300. Yet, this is still not the worst draw for the Andorran. Zhu Lin has not been very comfortable on clay throughout her career, with her movement in particular being noticeably more awkward on the dirt. That presents a chance for Kasintseva if she can stay consistent. Overall, the experience of Zhu may still just have the edge, but do not be surprised if this one is close.
Prediction: Zhu in 3
Embed from Getty Images
Nao Hibino vs Ashlyn Krueger
Head-to-head: Hibino 1-0 Krueger
There is a clear contrast in styles here. Nao Hibino’s game is based on grit and consistency, while Ashlyn Krueger tries to overpower her opponents. Clay often suits grinders, but that is not the case for Hibino. She does not move as well on the surface and struggles with the higher bounce. Krueger is more naturally comfortable on the dirt, and the slightly quicker clay courts in Madrid will help her even more. She should be able to overcome her Japanese opponent.
Prediction: Krueger in 2
Robin Montgomery vs Elina Avanesyan
Head-to-head: first meeting
Expect many long rallies in this one between two very good athletes. However, Robin Montgomery is unlikely to topple her higher-ranked opponent. Elina Avanesyan usually plays her best tennis on clay, while Montgomery prefers hard courts. The Russian will not do anything fancy, using her trademark consistency to wear Montgomery down. That approach is very likely to lead to a victory for Avanesyan.
Prediction: Avanesyan in 2
Embed from Getty Images
Paula Badosa vs Jessica Bouzas Maneiro
Head-to-head: first meeting
It is a relief that Paula Badosa recovered in time to be in the draw after she retired from her match in Stuttgart against close friend Aryna Sabalenka. She will need to play very well to beat her compatriot. Jessica Bouzas Maneiro is a rising star. The 21-year-old won a WTA 125 event in Antalya in March and reached a career-high ranking earlier this month. Badosa’s powerful groundstrokes need to be firing, since Bouzas Maneiro is a very good athlete. The older Spaniard gets a small edge, but this could go either way.
Prediction: Badosa in 3
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
