It promises to be another entertaining day of WTA Auckland tennis. The schedule includes a fascinating matchup between the Olympic Silver Medalist Donna Vekic and young star Alexandra Eala. Katie Boulter and Alycia Parks will also step onto the court. We at LWOT predict the other matches from Auckland, including Venus Williams vs Magda Linette, separately. But who will advance?
WTA Auckland Day 2 Predictions
Katie Boulter vs Yuliia Starodubtseva
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both women play quite similarly, trying to outhit opponents. At her best, Boulter utilizes that style better, but she also relies on it more heavily than her opponent. The Briton struggled in 2025, especially in the second half of the year. However, a break in the off-season might have been precisely what she needed, and I think she will be mentally tougher against Starodubtseva than throughout most of 2025.
Prediction: Boulter in 3
Sonay Kartal vs Janice Tjen
Head-to-head: First meeting
Tjen had an outstanding rise in the closing stages of 2025, winning a WTA title in Chennai and reaching another final in São Paolo. Observing whether she can carry that momentum will be fascinating. Kartal is a gritty opponent, and this could be a lengthy match. I would back Kartal on clay, but Tjen has a better chance of hitting through her on a hard court.
Prediction: Tjen in 3
Alycia Parks vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto
Head-to-head: First meeting
Parks played a few 125K tournaments in December. That commitment might mean she is slightly sharper than Cocciaretto. The Italian’s game is more complete, but she is equally prone to inconsistency. Parks playing more recently could make the difference in what I expect to be a scrappy encounter without much rhythm from two powerful hitters trying to find their range.
Prediction: Parks in 3
Donna Vekic vs Alexandra Eala
Head-to-head: First meeting
It feels like a significant year for Vekic. 2025 was a much worse year for her than 2024, and at 29, she could find it tough to challenge near the top again if 2026 proves another let-down. I do not think the Croatian will make an ideal start against Eala. The Filipina’s superb return and ability to extend the rallies with her movement are particularly effective against Vekic. The 2024 Wimbledon semifinalist will likely need to be near her best to have a chance.
Prediction: Eala in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports