WTA Cluj-Napoca Final Prediction: Korpatsch vs Ruse

Aug 31, 2022; Flushing, NY, USA; Elena Gabriela Ruse of Romania hits to Coco Gauff of the USA on day three of the 2022 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports

Get ready for an electric atmosphere and passionate crowd support at the WTA event in Cluj-Napoca. Romanian sensation, Elena-Gabriela Ruse, will aim to harness the energy of the home crowd as she strives for her second WTA singles title. Standing in her way is Tamara Korpatsch, a rising star competing in her first WTA final. This showdown promises to be a thrilling match that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. At LWOT, we provide our expert analysis and prediction for this final, along with other finals happening on the same day in Tokyo and Jiangxi. But we want to hear from you—who do you think will claim the crown in Cluj-Napoca?

Prediction for WTA Cluj-Napoca Final

Tamara Korpatsch vs Elena-Gabriela Ruse

Head-to-head: Ruse 2-0 Korpatsch

Both players have had an incredible week, regardless of the outcome of the final. Starting the tournament outside the Top 100, they have showcased outstanding skills and determination to reach this stage. Ruse has faced numerous challenges in recent years, with her ranking dropping from just outside the Top 50 in May 2021 to barely inside the Top 200 this week. However, the 25-year-old has found inspiration in her home tournament, defeating players like Alycia Parks and Rebeka Masarova en route to the final. Korpatsch’s journey is equally impressive, with a dramatic comeback victory against Jodie Burrage in the round-of-16. Trailing 5-1 in a deciding set tiebreak, Korpatsch displayed her best tennis, winning six consecutive points to secure the win. Her confidence has soared since that remarkable feat.

This is expected to be a closely contested match. Ruse is known for her aggressive playing style and will look to capitalize on that in this matchup. Korpatsch, on the other hand, poses a unique challenge for opponents with her unconventional style of play. Despite lacking the natural power of her peers, she compensates with consistency and impressive slices on both wings. Ruse will undoubtedly have the support of the home crowd, which could work in her favor. However, we give Korpatsch a slight edge in Cluj-Napoca. Her composure and mental strength throughout the tournament have been remarkable, making her well-equipped to handle the crowd favoring Ruse. Korpatsch will put the pressure on the Romanian, requiring her to produce a considerable number of winners to secure the title. Ultimately, we predict the home favorite will fall just short in Cluj-Napoca.

Prediction: Korpatsch in 3

Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch – USA TODAY Sports