The second day of WTA Osaka action will include Bianca Andreescu’s return to Japan. The 2019 US Open winner faces a tricky opening test against the experienced Viktorija Golubic. We here at LWOT predict all the matches, including Leylah Fernandez vs Hailey Baptiste and Alexandra Eala vs Tereza Valentova, in our articles. But who will advance?
WTA Osaka Day 2 Predictions
Ann Li vs Varvara Gracheva
Head-to-head: Li 2-0 Gracheva
Both players are naturally aggressive, but with different strengths. Li tries to control matches with her forehand, while Gracheva’s backhand is her most impressive shot. Although the Frenchwoman possesses much natural talent, Li’s level has been more reliable this season. The two-time WTA finalist in 2025 is likely to perform well and manage the fluctuations from Gracheva, which are common in her matches.
Prediction: Li in 3
Marie Bouzkova vs Ena Shibahara
Head-to-head: First meeting
Bouzkova has enjoyed a solid Asian swing, winning three matches at the China Open in Beijing and one at the Wuhan Open. Shibahara’s only previous match in Asia this year was an opening round defeat in Beijing. The Japanese player must almost certainly play far above her usual level to win. Bouzkova is not flashy and focuses on putting a lot of balls into court, but that usually proves good enough in matchups like this.
Prediction: Bouzkova in 2
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Bianca Andreescu vs Viktorija Golubic
Head-to-head: Andreescu 1-1 Golubic
Although she was far below her vintage best, there were some positive signs for Andreescu in Beijing and Wuhan. Hopefully, she can enjoy a lengthy period without any more injuries. Golubic enters Osaka with confidence after winning a WTA 125K tournament in Suzhou. That momentum and her greater sharpness from tournaments throughout the season could prove crucial. Andreescu is capable of better tennis than Golubic when fully match fit, but that level may prove beyond her in this encounter.
Prediction: Golubic in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports
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