Day two action at the Wuhan Open promises some intriguing matchups, with several players trying to build rhythm late in the season and others looking to make a statement ahead of the final stretch. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the schedule, including Iga Swiatek vs Marie Bouzkova and Emma Raducanu vs Ann Li. But who will advance?
WTA Wuhan Day 2 Predictions
Marta Kostyuk vs Karolina Muchova
Head-to-head: Muchova 1-0 Kostyuk
Marta Kostyuk’s game has been trending upward since her deep run in San Diego, and her power off the return could make this a real test for Karolina Muchova’s rhythm. The Czech, however, has looked sharp since returning from injury, using her variety and shot placement to keep opponents guessing. They’ve split their two previous meetings, and this one could come down to who holds their nerve when the rallies stretch long.
Prediction: Muchova in 3
Embed from Getty Images
Belinda Bencic vs Donna Vekic
Head-to-head: Bencic 4-1 Vekic
Belinda Bencic has fared better in high-profile matches in recent events and carries a 4–1 lead in the head-to-head into this clash. Her court craft and quick transitions tend to shine in these conditions, while Donna Vekic’s best chance lies in taking the initiative behind her serve. If both find their rhythm early, expect a lively battle marked by short points and sharp exchanges.
Prediction: Bencic in 2
Linda Noskova vs Yulia Putintseva
Head-to-head: Noskova 2–1 Putintseva
Linda Noskova leads their head-to-head 2–1 and is coming off a superb run to the final in Beijing, where her shot-making and poise under pressure stood out. If she maintains that level, she should have too much for Yulia Putintseva, who relies heavily on consistency and counterpunching. Still, the Kazakh’s tenacity could make Noskova work hard for every point.
Prediction: Noskova in 2
Embed from Getty Images
Naomi Osaka vs Leylah Fernandez
Head-to-head: Fernandez 1-0 Osaka
Naomi Osaka continues to rediscover her best tennis, and her serve has been a key factor in her recent improvement. Leylah Fernandez, though, brings relentless energy and a knack for absorbing pace, which has troubled Osaka in past encounters. Their previous lone meeting delivered intensity, and with both playing at a high level, this could be one of the matches of the day.
Prediction: Osaka in 3
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
AloJapan.com