The early rounds at WTA Auckland continue to offer plenty of intrigue as players look to settle into the season and make the most of favorable conditions on hard courts. With form from the opening round now on display, Day 3 presents several matchups where surface comfort and playing style could prove decisive.
While margins remain fine at this stage of the week, small advantages may be enough to separate these players as the tournament begins to take shape. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the schedule. But who will advance?
WTA Auckland Open Day 3 Predictions
Sinja Kraus vs Francesca Jones
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Sinja Kraus came through her opening match with a steady performance, keeping errors low and showing good discipline from the baseline. She looked comfortable absorbing pace and extending rallies, which is often rewarded on Auckland’s courts. Francesca Jones also progressed with a solid first-round display, using variety and movement to unsettle her opponent. However, against players who can maintain depth consistently, Jones can find herself defending for long stretches. With no previous meetings between them, this match likely hinges on who controls the majority of rallies. Jones’ ability to stay solid and redirect pace gives her a slight edge in longer exchanges.
Prediction: Jones in 3
Xinyu Wang vs Renata Zarazua
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Xinyu Wang looked sharp in her opening-round win, striking the ball cleanly and serving well at key moments. Her direct style and comfort on hard courts allow her to take time away from opponents when she finds her range. Renata Zarazua relied on her trademark consistency to advance, but she tends to be more effective on slower surfaces. On a quicker hard court, she may struggle to neutralize Wang’s pace over an extended period. Wang’s aggressive shot-making should help her stay in control.
Prediction: Wang in 2
Kaitlin Quevedo vs Sofia Costoulas
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Kaitlin Quevedo handled her first-round match well, showing composure under pressure and a willingness to step inside the baseline when openings appeared. Her movement and court positioning stood out. Sofia Costoulas brings athleticism and rally tolerance, but she can sometimes struggle to finish points decisively. That could be an issue if she allows Quevedo to take the initiative. Quevedo’s slightly more assertive approach on hard courts gives her the edge in key moments.
Prediction: Quevedo in 3
Iva Jovic vs Sara Bejlek
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Iva Jovic impressed in the previous round with confident hitting and strong court presence. Her serve and forehand allow her to take control early in points, which suits these conditions. Sara Bejlek is a steady competitor, but her hard-court results have been less convincing when facing players who can apply sustained pressure. Bejlek has the game to hang for a set but Jovic appears better positioned to dictate play throughout the match.
Prediction: Jovic in 2
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui – Imagn Images
