Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA ’s-Hertogenbosch match.
Maria Sakkari has experienced a mix of strong performances and disappointing results in recent months, but she is expected to begin her campaign at the WTA tournament in 's-Hertogenbosch with a routine victory. Her first-round opponent is Anouk Koevermans, a relatively unknown wild card entrant. Despite her home advantage, this is unlikely to bridge the considerable gap in quality.
Anouk Koevermans
Anouk Koevermans is currently ranked 190th in the world and has minimal experience on the WTA Tour. So far this season, she has suffered 10 defeats in 19 matches, most of which came on the ITF circuit and against players ranked outside the top 200. She also struggles with consistency on serve, averaging seven double faults per match this year. Her grass-court experience is extremely limited, with just one match played on the surface in the past two years.
Maria Sakkari
Maria Sakkari may not be at her most dominant, but she continues to secure wins based on her superior all-around game, taking six victories from her last nine matches. In that run, she reached the round of 16 in Madrid, defeating three top-50 opponents: Wang Xinyu, Magda Linette, and Jasmine Paolini. She is not expected to encounter any real resistance from Anouk Koevermans. On grass, Sakkari has won 6 out of 12 matches and maintains a solid 68% first-serve points won.
Anouk Koevermans vs Maria Sakkari Prediction
The gulf in class, technical ability, and match readiness is evident. Even without playing at her peak, Maria Sakkari should have little trouble dispatching an opponent with no proven record at WTA level on grass.
