the Cincinnati Open Things are well and truly underway as day two sees the conclusion of the first round. Day 2 has a packed lineup across both tours, with this article focusing on four matches on the WTA Tour and highlighting the return of the great Venus Williams in Cincinnati. But that’s not nearly all that will be on offer. As always, we here at LWOT will break down each match for you. But who do you think will extend their stay in Cincinnati for at least one more game?
WTA Cincinnati predictions for day 2
Maria Timofeeva vs. Wang Xiu
Face to face: Timofeeva 1-0 Wang
This encounter will turn into a tennis battle from the first shot, as both Maria Timofeeva and Wang Xiu are aggressive players who like to dictate play on the hard courts. Timofeeva relies more on her all-court versatility, while Wang is a player who likes to use a heavier topspin. This was evident during her qualifying matches here, as she won both matches in straight sets. The experience of already playing on these courts, coupled with the fact that this will be Timofeeva’s first match in three weeks, gives Wang the edge in this match for me.
Prediction: Wang’s 3
Maya Joint vs Tamara Korpatsch
Face to face: First meeting
With a season to remember so far this year, Maya Joynt has shown some positive signs in Toronto as she has reeled off three straight wins. Now, to begin her campaign in Cincinnati, she faces Tamara Korbach, a player who, although she likes slower conditions more, has the tools to draw points and make the match physical. This encounter will likely come down to Gwent level from the baseline. And although the Australian has been completely sub-par for long stretches this season, I can see her picking up another win here to continue her stay in Cincinnati.
Prediction: Shared in 2
Lily Tagger vs. Talia Gibson
Face to face: First meeting
After losing her first set in the qualifying round, Lily Tajer has been close to perfection ever since, achieving the main draw without any further hiccups. Now, in her first round match, the young Austrian will face the aggressive game of Talia Gibson. Gibson likes to use a double-wing approach, which can be quite a challenge on faster surfaces. But Tagger has both the serve and baseline versatility to not only stay in this match but also set the tone. Ultimately, I expect a competitive encounter, where the player with more options wins.
Prediction: Tager at 3
Venus Williams vs Emiliana Arango
Face to face: First meeting
Emiliana Arango made the main draw the hard way, overcoming three straight sets in the qualifying round. Now, as a reward, you will get the honor of confrontation Legend Venus Williamswho herself received the wild card for this tournament. At this point in her career, Williams’ every appearance should be cherished regardless of the outcome. While I expect that to happen with a large crowd supporting her, from a tennis standpoint, it is very likely that Williams will explode again as the match progresses, especially against a player who likes to make the match physical.
Prediction: Arango at 2
Main image source: Post: Desert Sun/USAToday Images
