The European clay swing keeps rolling, as the first WTA 1000 series event on the surface is well and truly underway in Madrid. Day 2 will see the conclusion of the first round, and we have an exciting clash between two Americans in store. But that is far from all, and as always, we here at LWOT will be predicting every match for you. But who do you think will come out on top?
WTA Madrid Day 2 Predictions
Oksana Selekhmeteva vs Leolia Jeanjean
Head-to-head: Jeanjean 1-0 Selekhmeteva
This matchup pits Oksana Selekhmeteva’s court craft and lefty angles against Leolia Jeanjean’s patience and controlled baseline game. In their only previous meeting, Jeanjean dominated, dropping just one game. While this contest should be much closer, with the high-altitude conditions aiding Selekhmeteva’s aggressive approach, Jeanjean’s consistency from the baseline still gives her the edge in this matchup for me.
Prediction: Jeanjean in 3
Elsa Jacquemot vs Tyra Caterina Grant
Head-to-head: First meeting
This encounter sees Elsa Jacquemot’s baseline consistency go up against the aggression of the inexperienced Tyra Caterina Grant, who impressed in qualifying. The young Italian possesses a technically sound forehand capable of doing damage on the clay, while Jacquemot is comfortable extending rallies and making matches physical. If the more experienced player balances aggression with her defensive strengths, she should come through in what could be a three-set battle.
Prediction: Jacquemot in 3
Ashlyn Krueger vs Sofia Kenin
Head-to-head: Krueger 2-1 Kenin
In an all-American clash, Ashlyn Krueger faces Sofia Kenin for a place in the Madrid Open second round. This matchup will hinge on whether Kenin can still grind and counterpunch effectively on clay against Krueger’s aggressive, first-strike tennis. If Kenin’s defense holds up, her experience on this surface, including a run to the French Open final in 2020, could prove decisive in securing a confidence-inducing win.
Prediction: Kenin in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports