Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA US Open match.
For many, the name Clervie Ngounoue may be unfamiliar — and understandably so. Even the tournament’s official website lists Anna Kalinskaya as a strong favourite.
Anna Kalinskaya
According to official US Open data, Kalinskaya’s win probability stands at 69% — significantly higher than the more common 55–45 split in other first-round ties. Seeded No.29, the Russian doesn’t have standout results this summer, but her recent losses have all come against higher-ranked opponents: Leylah Fernandez in Washington, Elina Svitolina in Montreal, and Iga Świątek in Cincinnati. Importantly, in Washington she reached the final while ranked No.48 — a sign of clear progress.
Clervie Ngounoue
Ngounoue, born 19 July 2006, is currently ranked No.178. Her official WTA profile contains little beyond her age and ranking. Yet her seasonal record of 33-11 is eye-catching — largely built on the ITF Challenger circuit, where she has captured two titles and two runner-up finishes. Both of her final defeats came against Victoria Mboko, who stunned the tennis world by winning the WTA 1000 in Montreal three weeks ago and has already overtaken Kalinskaya in the rankings. Ngounoue’s biggest breakthrough so far has been reaching the second round in Cincinnati — a career-best performance at tour level.
Anna Kalinskaya vs Clervie Ngounoue Prediction
While Ngounoue is a promising youngster capable of producing surprises, Kalinskaya’s higher level of competition and recent upward trajectory make her the clear favourite. A comfortable win looks the most likely outcome.
