WTA Cincinnati Day 2 Predictions Including Caroline Garcia vs Sonay Kartal

Emina Bektas has fallen off after unexpectedly peaking in the Top 100 a couple of seasons ago, but qualifying with good wins over Katarzyna Kawa and Solana Sierra suggests she still might have something left in the tank. Anastasija Sevastova is even more of a veteran making a comeback after barely playing in the 2022-24 seasons. After a great performance in Montreal, the former World No. 11 should be well-positioned for at least one win here. Bektas doesn’t possess the weapons to trouble her.
Prediction: Sevastova in 2

Anna Blinkova vs Kimberly Birrell

Head-to-head: First meeting

It’s floor versus ceiling here as a very solid player meets an inconsistent one. Anna Blinkova has shown tremendous potential at times, especially in that legendary tie-break against Elena Rybakina at the Australian Open, but we don’t see that version of her game often enough. Meanwhile, we more or less know what level to expect from Kimberly Birrell in every match. In such contests, especially in quicker conditions, I tend to lean towards the upside.
Prediction: Blinkova in 3

Caroline Garcia vs Sonay Kartal

Head-to-head: First meeting

Caroline Garcia is saying goodbye to professional tennis this year and after a send-off at the French Open, she’s coming back for the final couple of events before retiring in New York. Is it outlandish to think she might have a shot here? She should be playing with less pressure on her shoulders and at a venue she enjoys (won the tournament in 2022). Sonay Kartal’s good, but is also competing for the first time since Wimbledon. Maybe Garcia won’t be that short on match rhythm compared to her?
Prediction: Garcia in 3