Fans can expect to be treated to much great WTA action on the opening day in Cincinnati. 2023 Wimbledon winner Marketa Vondrousova starts her campaign with a fascinating matchup against Jaqueline Cristian. Two other matches are also predicted in this piece. We here at LWOT predict the other contests, including Venus Williams vs Jessica Bouzas Maneiro and Donna Vekic vs Sorana Cirstea, separately.
WTA Cincinnati Day 1 Predictions
Aoi Ito vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse
Head-to-head: First meeting
Ito got to the round of 32 at the National Bank Open, shocking Jasmine Paolini during that run. Despite her lack of firepower, the Japanese player demonstrated her ability to frustrate opponents. She played well again to qualify in Cincinnati and is a slight favorite against Ruse. The Romanian plays best on clay because of how dangerous her forehand is on that surface. Ito is more likely to frustrate her on a hard court.
Prediction: Ito in 3
Bernarda Pera vs Eva Lys
Head-to-head: Lys 2-0 Pera
Lys defeated Pera twice on clay, which is the American’s favorite surface. On a hard court, Lys is a heavier favorite. The German’s superiority in the backhand exchanges should be more pronounced in the Cincinnati conditions. Pera will not have as many chances to move around and hit forehands, which is a fundamental part of her game.
Prediction: Lys in 2
Marketa Vondrousova vs Jaqueline Cristian
Head-to-head: First meeting
Cristian performed impressively at the National Bank Open, including beating Linda Noskova. However, this is a challenging matchup for her if Vondrousova performs near her best. The Czech is among the best at stifling opponents, which will make it challenging for Cristian to control exchanges with her forehand. That is the basis of the Romanian’s game, and she often falters in other areas when her forehand is not flourishing. Vondrousova to progress with a straight-sets win.
Prediction: Vondrousova in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports
