We are treated to a fun WTA 250 event this week in Rouen, France, while most of the better clay courters are choosing to play in Stuttgart. That means this event will have some serious opportunities for players who don’t make deep runs as often. Who is in position to make a name for themselves in Rouen? Let’s look at the opening day matches.
WTA Rouen Day 1 Predictions
Daria Kasatkina vs Ann Li
Kasatkina may never again reach her heights from a few years ago, but she’s still far more talented than her ranking would indicate. She’s been playing decently this year. So while Li is currently higher ranked and the seeded player, I expect the Russian to move on.
Prediction: Kasatkina in 2
Kamilla Rakhimova vs Elvina Kalieva
The young American looked pretty strong in qualifiers. She’s still not consistent enough at the top levels to be trusted, but I do think her level of tennis right now is higher than Rakhimova’s.
Prediction: Kalieva in 3
Sloane Stephens vs Veronika Podrez
Podrez was extremely impressive in qualifying, dominating both of her opponents. Stephens hasn’t been playing anywhere near her peak level in a long time now. The American needs to find some type of rhythm again, and she hasn’t had anywhere near it in years. It’s hard to expect her to win any match nowadays, especially against an opponent playing well.
Prediction: Podrez in 3
Katie Boulter vs Maria Timofeeva
Timofeeva is now a few years removed from her stunning breakthrough run in Budapest, and she hasn’t followed it up with anything remotely similar. I don’t know what to expect from her, but a matchup with Boulter on clay is one she should be able to win.
Prediction: Timofeeva in 3
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports