Belinda Bencic will play her opening match of the clay-court swing on the second day of the WTA 500 in Charleston. The Olympic Gold Medalist faces a challenging battle against the talented Dayana Yastremska. That is among several interesting contests scheduled for Day 2. We at LWOT predict the other action, including Bianca Andreescu vs Dalma Galfi and Paula Badosa vs Kayla Day, in separate articles.
WTA Charleston Day 2 Predictions
Shuai Zhang vs Yuliia Starodubtseva
Head-to-head: First meeting
A month ago, Zhang had an excellent run to the semifinals of the Merida Open. That has since been followed by opening-round losses in Indian Wells and Miami. The Chinese veteran usually plays her best tennis on hard courts. Starodubtseva is the most likely winner on clay. Although the green surface in Charleston plays faster than the red used at other events, the ball will not be flying through the court. That suits the Ukrainian more.
Prediction: Starodubtseva in 2
Caty McNally vs Ashlyn Krueger
Head-to-head: McNally 2-1 Krueger
Neither of these Americans is naturally suited to clay, although the slightly quicker green version will help them. While McNally’s talent means her chances should not be ruled out, I feel Coco Gauff’s former doubles partner is the more vulnerable in this matchup. Her variety, willingness to come to the net, and ability to redirect opponents’ pace are negated on clay. Krueger’s more conventional game will likely hold up better over three sets.
Prediction: Krueger in 3
Belinda Bencic vs Dayana Yastremska
Head-to-head: Bencic 4-1 Yastremska
The head-to-head and Bencic’s superior achievements make this a challenging matchup for Yastremska. The Ukrainian would have a good chance if this match were on red clay, which Bencic struggles on the most. However, the US Open semifinalist was the 2022 winner and 2023 runner-up in Charleston, showing how comfortable she is on green clay. Bencic’s good form heading into the event makes the task even more daunting for Yastremska.
Prediction: Bencic in 2
Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
