With the National Bank Open now behind us, tennis shifts its focus to the Cincinnati Open as the last big stop ahead of the final Major of the season. Day 2 sees a packed slate of exciting first-round clashes, with players looking to start the tournament on a positive note. As always, we here at LWOT will be predicting every match for you on Day 2, but who do you think will win?
WTA Cincinnati Day 2 Predictions
Elvina Kalieva vs Oleksandra Oliynykova
Head-to-head: Kalieva 1-0 Oliynykova
This match is a traditional power player up against a gritty defender, as wild card Elvina Kalieva is tasked with outhitting the unorthodox defensive techniques of Oleksandra Oliynykova. Kalieva showed just a couple of weeks ago in Memphis that when she is confident behind her aggressive approach to play, she can play quite well, especially in faster conditions such as those expected in Cincinnati. Oliynykova’s scrambling abilities can at times frustrate Kalieva here, but if the American keeps her composure, she should reach the second round.
Prediction: Kalieva in 3
Jessica Bouzas Maneiro vs Anna Bondar
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both of these players are more suited to the slower clay courts, as they are traditional baseliners, relying on making extra balls and their defensive abilities more than attacking play. Bondar has had some good results so far this year, while Jessica Bouzas Maneiro has struggled for consistency at times. In a matchup that will likely come down to which player can dictate play more often from the baseline, I’m edging towards Bondar to do so.
Prediction: Bondar in 2
Sofia Kenin vs Eva Lys
Head-to-head: First meeting
Physical issues throughout the season have quite derailed Eva Lys’ momentum this year, as just to make the main draw of Cincinnati, she had to come through as a lucky loser. Sofia Kenin, on the other hand, is also short on wins as she enters the match on a three-match losing streak, a level far removed from what saw her once upon a time compete for Major titles. This match will likely be won by whichever player can put their adversity behind them and take the forward step on the court, as it will come down to a baseline duel. Both players need this win, but behind a home crowd, I think Kenin can use that energy to edge her past Lys here.
Prediction: Kenin in 3
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn Images