US Open Day 7 Women’s Predictions: Gauff Faces Navarro in a Thrilling Clash
The seventh day of the US Open promises exciting matchups as the tournament heads into its second week. The competition is heating up, and every player left is determined to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Let’s dive into the key women’s matchups and predictions.
Day 7 Predictions
Coco Gauff vs Emma Navarro
Jim: The last time these two faced off, Navarro had the upper hand, but Gauff excels on hard courts. While it could be a tight contest, Gauff’s superior game on this surface should give her the edge.
Prediction: Gauff in 3 sets
Jordan: Navarro’s victory over Gauff at Wimbledon saw her attack Gauff’s forehand relentlessly. However, the conditions in New York are more favorable for Gauff, with the slower, bouncier courts helping her protect her weaker forehand. If Gauff can avoid too many second serves, she should win this one.
Prediction: Gauff in 2 sets
Glenys: This all-American clash will be one to watch. Navarro dominated her early rounds but was tested by the 19th seed, while Gauff has also had a mix of comfortable wins and tough battles. This is shaping up to be a close encounter.
Prediction: Gauff in 3 sets
Zheng Qinwen vs Donna Vekic
Jim: Zheng Qinwen is riding a wave of confidence after winning gold in Paris, and she already defeated Vekic in the final of that tournament. She should be able to do so again at the US Open.
Prediction: Zheng in 2 sets
Jordan: Vekic might feel more confident facing Zheng at the US Open than she did in the Olympic final on clay, but Zheng’s powerful serve and heavy topspin forehand will still be tough for Vekic to counter.
Prediction: Zheng in 3 sets
Glenys: Although Zheng had a tough start to the tournament, she dominated in the third round. Meanwhile, Vekic cruised through her matches but has struggled against Zheng in the past, particularly in their Olympic final.
Prediction: Zheng in 2 sets
Elise Mertens vs Aryna Sabalenka
Jim: Sabalenka managed to advance despite a slow start in her previous round, but she won’t want to repeat that against Mertens. Sabalenka’s power game should be too much for Mertens to handle.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 2 sets
Jordan: Mertens had to battle hard to get past Madison Keys, but Sabalenka is a different beast. The Belarusian is less error-prone and returns better than Keys, making it unlikely that Mertens will pose much of a threat.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 2 sets
Glenys: Mertens expended a lot of energy in her last match, while Sabalenka, despite also needing three sets, dominated the latter part of her third-round match. Sabalenka will likely be too strong for Mertens in this contest.
Prediction: Sabalenka in 3 sets
Paula Badosa vs Wang Yafan
Jim: Wang Yafan has had a great tournament so far, especially with her upset over Victoria Azarenka. However, Badosa is playing at a higher level and should have the upper hand in this encounter.
Prediction: Badosa in 2 sets
Jordan: Wang’s run to her first Grand Slam fourth round at the age of 30 is an inspiring story. Still, Badosa’s powerful and consistent play will likely prove too much for Wang’s defensive style.
Prediction: Badosa in 2 sets
Glenys: Although Badosa is the favorite on paper, Wang has been impressive, defeating 20th seed Azarenka. If she plays at her best, she could pull off another upset.
Prediction: Wang in 3 sets
Source: https://lastwordonsports.com/tennis/2024/08/31/us-open-day-7-womens-predictions-gauff-navarro/