The WTA season begins in Auckland, a stop that often rewards players who arrive prepared and comfortable on hard courts. With many competitors still finding their rhythm after the off-season, early-round matches can be decided by small margins. Day 1 features a mix of proven tour names and players looking to build momentum early in the year.
WTA Auckland Day 1 Predictions
Xinyu Wang vs Caty McNally
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Xinyu Wang has built a solid reputation on hard courts, where her flat groundstrokes and clean ball-striking allow her to take time away from opponents. She tends to look at ease in faster conditions and is capable of controlling rallies when given space. Caty McNally brings variety and creativity, but hard courts have often exposed her inconsistency, particularly when opponents keep the ball deep. If Wang maintains her depth and rhythm, she should be able to limit McNally’s opportunities to change the pace.
Prediction: Wang in 2
Sloane Stephens vs Renata Zarazua
Head-to-Head: Zarazua 1–0 Stephens
Sloane Stephens’ results can fluctuate, but hard courts remain one of her more reliable surfaces. Her movement and ability to redirect pace often give her an edge in early rounds, especially against players who rely on rhythm. Renata Zarazua is a strong competitor but is generally more effective on slower courts. Against Stephens, she may struggle to dictate play or finish points consistently, but Stephens’ poor form in recent times should give Zarazua the boost to challenge and come through.
Prediction: Zarazua in 3
Panna Udvardy vs Sara Bejlek
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Panna Udvardy’s experience could help her early on, but hard courts are not her preferred surface. She often relies on consistency rather than aggression, which can be risky against players willing to take initiative. Sara Bejlek has shown promising signs on hard courts, using her power to take control of points when confident. If she manages her errors, her ability to step up in key moments should prove decisive.
Prediction: Bejlek in 3
Peyton Stearns vs Kaitlin Quevedo
Head-to-Head: first meeting
Peyton Stearns looks well-suited to these conditions, with a game built around strong first strikes and solid baseline control. She has shown she can handle pace and finish points efficiently on hard courts. Kaitlin Quevedo continues to gain experience at this level but may find it difficult to consistently match Stearns’ intensity over a full match. Stearns’ steady pressure should be enough to separate the two.
Prediction: Stearns in 2
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane-USA TODAY Sports