Four Americans will be in action on WTA Guangzhou quarterfinal day. They are Coco Gauff’s former doubles partner, Caty McNally, Ann Li, Claire Liu, and Katie Volynets. We here at LWOT give our predictions and analysis on what should be an exciting day, but which players do you think will reach the semifinals?

WTA Guangzhou Quarterfinal Predictions
Caty McNally vs Lulu Sun

Head-to-head: First meeting

McNally successfully rushed Ajla Tomljanovic to defeat the Australian in three sets. Although Sun, like Tomljanovic, plays from the baseline, her style is different. The New Zealander relies heavily on her heavy left-handed topspin forehand, but she hits great passing shots with it. If the 24-year-old hits that shot well, McNally’s net rushes will be less effective. I think that can make the difference in this matchup.
Prediction: Sun in 3

Claire Liu vs Ella Seidel

Head-to-head: Seidel 1-0 Liu

Both women performed impressively in the previous round. Their baseline games are somewhat similar, and neither player is likely to change how they play. I expect this to be a tight battle because of Liu’s surprisingly high level in Guangzhou. Seidel’s excellent performances throughout the entire Asian swing make me trust the German’s consistency slightly more.
Prediction: Seidel in 3

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Ann Li vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto

Head-to-head: First meeting

The outcome of this matchup will likely be decided by who implements their strength more effectively. Li has a better forehand, while Cocciaretto’s backhand is superior. The Italian’s backhand is ideally suited to exploiting Li’s weakness on that wing in cross-court rallies. If she performs well, Cocciaretto’s forehand will hold up better under similar pressure.
Prediction: Cocciaretto in 2

Shuai Zhang vs Katie Volynets

Head-to-head: Zhang 1-0 Volynets

Zhang possesses better technical ability than Volynets. The former Wimbledon quarterfinalist will try to use that superiority to dominate her younger opponent. However, although she lacks firepower, Volynets is one of the best movers and grittiest competitors on the WTA Tour. That is a significant asset against the 36-year-old Zhang. The conditions are not overly fast in Guangzhou, which will help Volynets even more. She is backed to win for that reason.
Prediction: Volynets in 2

Main Photo Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports