The remaining 15 WTA Toronto Round of 32 matches are scheduled for Day 3. Naomi Osaka will seek to build on her demolition of Ons Jabeur in the previous round against the tricky Belgian Elise Mertens. As always, we at LWOT predict all the matches on the slate, including Jelena Ostapenko vs Paula Badosa. But which players do you think will win?
WTA Toronto Day 3 Predictions
Elina Svitolina vs Marta Kostyuk
Head-to-head: Svitolina 1-0 Kostyuk
Expect many long and physical points in this match. Both Ukrainians are excellent athletes and are capable of soaking up pressure. Kostyuk’s movement is slightly better than Svitolina’s, which is a fraction slower than a few years ago. However, the two-time Wimbledon semifinalist has been more potent in attack since returning from maternity leave. Still, hitting through her younger compatriot will be tough and might prove too great a challenge.
Prediction: Kostyuk in 3
Diana Shnaider vs Magdalena Frech
Head-to-head: First meeting
Shnaider was far below her best against Harriet Dart, narrowly prevailing in a deciding set tiebreak. Frech is enjoying her best season to date, and her consistent baseline hitting could prove challenging for Shnaider if she struggles again. The recent women’s doubles silver medalist at the Olympics could also be slightly fatigued after a long match without a day’s rest. Frech’s solidity could be in a good position to take advantage of all those factors.
Prediction: Frech in 3
Emma Navarro vs Magda Linette
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both players possess similar playing styles based on consistency and athleticism. Linette will need to be more aggressive than usual to have a chance against Navarro, who is so solid in every match she plays. The Pole has proven she can do that when needed, but managing it over three sets against as stubborn an opponent as the American will be tricky. Navarro to progress in two competitive sets.
Prediction: Navarro in 2
Naomi Osaka vs Elise Mertens
Head-to-head: Osaka 4-2 Mertens
Osaka produced an outstanding performance that blew away Ons Jabeur in the last round. Mertens defeated the Japanese star in March in Indian Wells, but the four-time Grand Slam champion’s level will likely be higher this time. Osaka has clearly been trying to play herself into form for the August and September North American hard court season, which suits her game so well. Mertens is a very complete player with few weaknesses, but she is likely to be overwhelmed by Osaka in Toronto.
Prediction: Osaka in 2
Main Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
