Another fascinating day of WTA Indian Wells is scheduled. Peyton Stearns will play her first match since winning the title in Austin when she faces Solana Sierra. That is one of four contests predicted in this article. As always, we here at LWOT cover all the action around the grounds, including Venus Williams vs Diane Parry, and Donna Vekic vs Tereza Valentova.

WTA Indian Wells Day 2 Predictions
Magdalena Frech vs Storm Hunter

Head-to-head: Frech 2-0 Hunter

This is Frech’s first match since her run to the Merida Open final. That was a welcome achievement after a mostly difficult previous six months for the Pole. Hunter won both her qualifying matches in straight sets. Although those performances were encouraging, Frech’s recent form and the head-to-head record make her the more likely winner.
Prediction: Frech in 2

Cristina Bucsa vs Darja Vidmanova

Head-to-head: First meeting

Bucsa won her maiden WTA singles title in Merida. Vidmanova has never been inside the Top 100. However, she reached a career-high ranking last month and played well in qualifying. A player dropping their level after a significant achievement is common, but I doubt that will happen to Bucsa. The Spaniard has a down-to-earth personality that is suited to refocusing swiftly.
Prediction: Bucsa in 2

Hailey Baptiste vs Emiliana Arango

Head-to-head: Arango 2-0 Baptiste

If this match goes to three sets, it has the potential to be among the tournament’s lengthiest battles. Baptiste often counterpunches, but she will likely be the aggressor against the gritty Arango. The slow conditions in Indian Wells make hitting winners even more challenging. Baptiste is narrowly favored to fight through this challenge, but it could go either way.
Prediction: Baptiste in 3

Peyton Stearns vs Solana Sierra

Head-to-head: First meeting

This is a decent draw for Stearns after her heroics in Austin. Although Sierra will likely have her moments, the Argentine strongly favors playing on clay. The slow conditions in Indian Wells could help her somewhat, but probably not enough to defeat Stearns. This is a match the home favorite could win without needing to be at her very best.
Prediction: Stearns in 2

Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports