It promises to be a fascinating WTA Washington final. Former world No. 2 Paula Badosa faces the Czech Marie Bouzkova. Badosa hopes to win a fourth title, while Bouzkova seeks her second. We at LWOT give our prediction and analysis in this article. But which woman do you think will reign supreme in Washington?
WTA Washington Final Prediction
Paula Badosa vs Marie Bouzkova
Head-to-head: Badosa 1-0 Bouzkova
Both players managed some impressive victories to reach this stage. Badosa’s route included wins against the 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin and 2021 US Open winner Emma Raducanu in the quarterfinal. Her 4-6 7-5 6-4 was one of the tournament’s best matches. Bouzkova defeated the American trio McCartney Kessler, Taylor Townsend, and Robin Montgomery to make the semifinal. The Czech then upset the current Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka 6-4 3-6 6-3 to reach her seventh career final.
There will be a clash of styles in this final. Badosa is one of the most potent ball-strikers in women’s tennis, while Bouzkova’s game is based on consistency and redirecting her opponent’s pace. Although Sabalenka was far below her best, Bouzkova showed she is not intimidated by powerful hitters and thrives against them. But Badosa will justifiably feel her game is good enough to win at its blistering best.
The Spaniard also needs to be smart and mix up her game. There will be a temptation to try and hit through Bouzkova’s defense every point. However, occasionally mixing up the pace of the rallies to stop Bouzkova from getting into a rhythm of striking flat shots every point is important. Badosa can hit her forehand with heavy topspin, which is a ploy she should use.
Bouzkova’s serve is also an essential part of this matchup. It can be attackable, but the fast Washington conditions and impressive placement have helped her defend it well throughout the tournament. Still, it is something Badosa will try to exploit.
This could go either way, but Bouzkova is narrowly favoured to win the women’s singles at the Washington Open. Her ability to dig in could extract enough errors to win against Badosa. This really is a 50/50 matchup, though.
Prediction: Bouzkova in 3
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch – USA TODAY Sports
