It promises to be a terrific opening day of WTA Cincinnati matches. Several great women’s players are scheduled to play, including Marta Kostyuk, who has enjoyed a breakthrough 2024 season. Her match against the four-time Grand Slam doubles champion Elise Mertens is one of 12 contests taking place on Day 1. But who will advance to the second round?
WTA Cincinnati Day 1 Predictions
Ajla Tomljanovic vs Varvara Gracheva
Head-to-head: Gracheva 3-0 Tomljanovic
Both players have struggled for consistency this year. Tomljanovic has not been able to string together many wins since returning from an injury, while Gracheva, aside from a run to the fourth round of her home Grand Slam at the French Open, has also been erratic. However, this is a good matchup for her, as her head-to-head against the Australian shows. Tomljanovic does not possess blistering power, and Gracheva thrives most when she has some time on her shots. That makes her a slight favorite in Cincinnati despite the quick conditions.
Prediction: Gracheva in 3
Robin Montgomery vs Elisabetta Cocciaretto
Head-to-head: First meeting
Cocciaretto lost in the opening round in Toronto last week, while Montgomery failed to get past the qualifying stage. Montgomery’s serve is an important shot in this matchup. A fast hardcourt like the ones in Ohio suits her playing style perfectly if she can find her best level. Cocciaretto is capable of becoming inspired and will back herself as the higher-ranked player. However, I feel Montgomery’s serve could prove to be the difference.
Prediction: Montgomery in 3
Anastasia Potapova vs Clara Burel
Head-to-head: Potapova 1-0 Burel
Potapova lost her first two matches of the North American hardcourt swing and has yet to register a victory. This matchup is a good chance to break that streak. Burel will be playing her first hardcourt match since March after playing at the Olympics at Roland-Garros. Potapova’s consistent shotmaking should be able to take advantage of the Frenchwoman’s rustiness, although her last two performances mean that is not certain.
Prediction: Potapova in 2
Marta Kostyuk vs Elise Mertens
Elise Mertens created headlines by defeating four-time major champion Naomi Osaka last week in Montreal, although she could not back that up in her next match. Kostyuk lost in two tight sets to the eventual semifinalist Emma Navarro in Canada. Expect plenty of long rallies between these two impressive athletes, but I favor Kostyuk slightly more. Her movement is slightly superior, and she may be able to wear Mertens down.
Prediction: Kostyuk in 3
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports
