All-youngster showdowns and comeback stories highlight Day 4 in Cincinnati. Below are previews and predictions for four second-round WTA matches, with the reasoning behind each pick and a few extra notes to watch.
Sofia Kenin vs Varvara Gracheva
Head-to-head: Kenin 1-0
Preview: Kenin’s form has been uneven — a heavy loss to Taylor Townsend in Washington showed vulnerability — but her peak level remains higher than most. She already edged Gracheva at Roland Garros, which gives her a psychological edge.
Why Kenin: Kenin’s higher upside and past victory over Gracheva make her the favorite if she can find a consistent level.
Prediction: Kenin in 2
Caty McNally vs McCartney Kessler
Head-to-head: First meeting
Preview: McNally is riding strong momentum after taking a set off Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon and claiming two titles at lower-tier events (Newport WTA 125 and an ITF in Evansville), plus a solid showing in Montreal. McNally’s game thrives on mixing pace and creating awkward looks for opponents. Kessler arrives with confidence, having won the doubles title in Montreal recently.
Why Kessler: This is a close matchup. McNally’s form and variety are dangerous, but Kessler’s recent doubles success and steadiness could tilt a tight match in her favor.
Prediction: Kessler in 3
Anastasija Sevastova vs Ashlyn Krueger
Head-to-head: First meeting
Preview: Sevastova, a former World No. 11, has hardly played over the past few seasons but looked sharp with three wins in Montreal before falling to Naomi Osaka. Her experience and court craft contrast with Krueger’s aggressive, high-variance attacking style.
Why Sevastova: Experience and tactical nous should help Sevastova frustrate Krueger and win a tight battle.
Prediction: Sevastova in 3
Linda Noskova vs Iva Jovic
Head-to-head: First meeting
Preview: Iva Jovic, just 17, has already cracked the Top 100 and is an intriguing young prospect, but she’s still seeking a major WTA breakthrough. Noskova is inconsistent at times but offers more experience and a higher level overall.
Why Noskova: Noskova’s experience and generally higher level make her the likely favorite in what could be a competitive three-set match.
Prediction: Noskova in 3
Additional comments and notes
– Keys to watch: consistency from Kenin, McNally’s ability to mix pace, Sevastova’s tactical adjustments against big hitting, and whether Jovic can maintain composure against the more seasoned Noskova.
– Young storylines: Jovic’s rapid rise and McNally’s late surge this season are positives for the future of the tour—both are players to follow beyond Cincinnati.
– Betting/odds note: These matches project to be close; look for line movement based on pre-match warmups and any available injury updates.
– Fan engagement: These matchups are great for spotting future stars. Fans should keep an eye on momentum shifts — several picks hinge on who can impose their rhythm under pressure.
Short summary
Four second-round matches in Cincinnati feature a mix of rising youngsters and experienced campaigners. Picks: Kenin, Kessler, Sevastova, and Noskova, each favored to advance in tightly contested matches.
Hopeful angle
The draw highlights exciting transitional moments on tour: veterans using guile to stay competitive and teenagers like Jovic already forcing their way into big draws. That blend of experience and youth promises entertaining matches and fresh rivalries to follow this season.
Who do you think will reach the third round? Share your picks and why.