Main-draw action kicks off in Chennai on Monday with a mix of qualifiers eager to make their mark and seeded players looking to assert early control. With the humid conditions likely to play a part, fitness and patience could prove key across the day’s opening encounters. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the schedule. But who will advance?
WTA Chennai Day 1 Predictions
Mei Yamaguchi vs Francesca Jones
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Yamaguchi’s path through qualifying suggests she’s adapting well to the Chennai surface, but facing the second seed is a sharp jump in level. Jones has been working on improving her first-serve percentage and forehand consistency—two factors that should give her the upper hand in extended rallies. If Yamaguchi can stay aggressive on return and shorten points, she might keep it close early, but Jones’ composure and experience should see her through.
Prediction: Jones in 3
Thasaporn Naklo vs Diane Parry
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Parry’s elegant single-handed backhand and ability to redirect pace often trouble opponents unused to her variety. Naklo’s compact strokes and quick feet could keep rallies competitive early, but Parry’s heavier spin and tactical nous should help her pull away once she finds rhythm.
Prediction: Parry in 2
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Arianne Hartono vs Joanna Garland
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Hartono comes in with the advantage of match rhythm after a solid qualifying campaign. However, Garland’s consistency and counterpunching ability make her tough to break down, especially on slower hard courts. If Garland can absorb Hartono’s pace and turn defense into attack, she should grind out a narrow win.
Prediction: Hartono in 2
Linda Fruhvirtova vs Astrid Lew Yan Foon
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Fruhvirtova hasn’t had her smoothest season but remains dangerous when she’s dictating from the middle of the court. Lew Yan Foon will look to disrupt rhythm with variety, yet the Czech’s superior shot tolerance and baseline control should be enough to secure a confidence-boosting start to her campaign.
Prediction: Fruhvirtova in 2
Main Photo Credit: Jerry Lai – USA TODAY Sports
