Mirra Andreeva’s attempt to reach back-to-back WTA 1000 finals will continue on Day 7 in Rome. She faces a tricky challenge against the consistently solid Elise Mertens. Jessica Pegula and Sorana Cirstea, who stunned world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the previous round, Naomi Osaka, and Iga Swiatek are also scheduled to play. We here at LWOT cover the other WTA matches, including Coco Gauff vs Jovic, in another article.
WTA Rome Day 7 Predictions
Sorana Cirstea vs Linda Noskova
Head-to-head: Cirstea 2-2 Noskova
These two have already played three times this year, with Cirstea winning two of the meetings. All of those matches were on hard courts. Noskova impressed in her opening two matches, not dropping a set in either. Nonetheless, Cirstea is backed to beat the Czech for a third time this year. The veteran’s confidence from beating Sabalenka could play a factor, and the slow conditions that allow her time on her groundstrokes suit the Romanian slightly more.
Prediction: Cirstea in 2
Jessica Pegula vs Anastasia Potapova
Head-to-head: Pegula 5-0 Potapova
The head-to-head does not accurately depict how much trouble Potapova has given Pegula. Two of their matches were decided in a final set tiebreak, and another ended 7-5 in the third set to the American. On Pegula’s least favorite surface, Potapova’s chances cannot be entirely ruled out. Still, the 2024 US Open runner-up starts as the most likely winner, especially since she played well in her opening two matches.
Prediction: Pegula in 3
Naomi Osaka vs Iga Swiatek
Head-to-head: Swiatek 2-1 Osaka
This will be this pair’s first meeting since their incredible French Open match almost two years ago, when Swiatek recovered from a match point down to prevail. Osaka’s best tennis is capable of challenging any player. Having said that, a contest on a pretty slow clay-court undoubtedly suits Swiatek more. Do not be surprised if drama occurs, but the four-time French Open champion is the more likely winner on her favorite surface.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2
Mirra Andreeva vs Elise Mertens
Head-to-head: First meeting
Mertens kept her composure superbly to beat defending champion Jasmine Paolini in front of a partisan crowd. The 30-year-old showed her experience and mettle during that battle. Andreeva will likely be a more challenging matchup for Mertens. The teenager’s superb backhand neutralizes one of her opponent’s most prominent strengths in cross-court rallies. I doubt Mertens will be able to trouble Andreeva consistently enough.
Prediction: Andreeva in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-Imagn Images
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