Ostapenko, Mertens face Challenges on Day 3 in Guadalajara
Guadalajara, Mexico – Jelena Ostapenko seeks retribution against Marina Stakusic while top seed Elise Mertens faces a potential upset as the WTA Guadalajara tournament progresses with a compelling slate of Day 3 matches. The tournament, held the week following the US Open, features a field lacking top-ranked players, with Mertens at #22 the highest seed.
Darja Vidmanova vs Nikola Bartunkova
Vidmanova leads the head-to-head 1-0. despite being the lowest-ranked match of the day, a WTA quarterfinal appearance motivates both players. Expect a tight contest mirroring their 2020 encounter, decided by crucial points.
Prediction: Vidmanova in 3.
Rebecca Marino vs Tatjana Maria
Marino holds a 2-1 head-to-head advantage. Maria’s ranking benefits from her grass-court success, reflected in their previous matchups. However, Marino is favored on hard courts and poised for a competitive match.
Prediction: Marino in 3.
elise Mertens vs Elsa Jacquemot
This marks the first meeting between the two. Mertens, the #1 seed, faces a tough opener against Jacquemot, who recently upset Maria sakkari, winning 6-0, 6-2 in the first round. Jacquemot’s current form presents a significant challenge.
Prediction: Jacquemot in 3.
Victoria Jimenez Kasintseva vs Veronika Kudermetova
This is also a first-time matchup. kudermetova aims to rebound from a disappointing US Open loss and has a favorable draw against a player ranked substantially lower. A return to form should secure her advancement.
Prediction: Kudermetova in 2.
Jelena ostapenko vs Marina Stakusic
Stakusic leads the head-to-head 1-0, having defeated Ostapenko in this tournament last year in a third-set tiebreak. Ostapenko returns to competition following US Open controversy and is known for inconsistency, but should secure the win if playing at her usual level.
Prediction: Ostapenko in 3.
