WTA Cluj-Napoca Day 1 Predictions Including Makarova vs Baindl

Ukraine’s Dayana Yastremska defeated the United State’s Jessica Pegula 6-3, 6-4 in the Billie Jean King Cup in Asheville April 16, 2022.

Bjk Cup 04162022 0419

Get ready for an exhilarating start at the WTA Cluj-Napoca Open in Romania as day one brings six action-packed matches. Our predictions cover every match, including the thrilling encounter between Rebeka Masarova and Noma Akugue Noha. Who will emerge victorious and secure a spot in the second round?

Epic Day 1 Predictions at WTA Cluj-Napoca

Miriam Bulgaru vs Ipek Oz

Head-to-head: first meeting

Prepare for a nail-biting clash between Miriam Bulgaru and Ipek Oz. With rankings of #205 and #209 respectively, both players have proven their prowess on clay courts. In fact, most of their notable achievements have occurred on the clay surface, as evidenced by their numerous ITF finals appearances. However, Bulgaru holds a special advantage – the support of her home fans in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

This match could easily go either way, but Bulgaru has shown exceptional performance in her home country in the past. The Romanian seems to thrive in front of a cheering crowd, which is likely to push the 25-year-old towards victory over her Turkish opponent.

Prediction: Bulgaru in 3

Ekaterina Makarova vs Kateryna Baindl

Head-to-head: first meeting

Kateryna Baindl has had a tough time securing wins recently, with her only notable result being a quarterfinal run in Prague after reaching the final in Budapest in July. Will she become a victim of an upset in Cluj-Napoca? It’s highly unlikely. Ekaterina Makarova, ranked outside the Top 200, is not expected to pose a significant challenge.

Moreover, Makarova excels on clay courts, with her last six finals on the ITF Circuit taking place on the dirt. Although she has struggled on hardcourts in recent months, Baindl should have no trouble progressing in Romania. However, her current form makes it unlikely for her to make a deep run in Cluj-Napoca.

Prediction: Baindl in 2

Embed from Getty Images

Nikola Bartunkova vs Dayana Yastremska

Head-to-head: first meeting

Dayana Yastremska has had a relatively unremarkable 2023, with minimal victories in main draw matches at WTA Tour events. Her only highlight was winning a title at a WTA 125 tournament in Poland. Her matchup against Nikola Bartunkova, a talented 17-year-old who has rapidly climbed the rankings, could prove challenging.

Yastremska, who might be feeling fatigued and eager for the year to end, needs to stay focused in this encounter. While the Ukrainian holds a higher ranking and possesses greater experience, Bartunkova’s exceptional talent could make this match closer than anticipated.

Prediction: Yastremska in 3

Main photo credit: Angela Wilhelm / USA TODAY NETWORK