Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the US Open match.
Diana Shnaider
For the 20-year-old Russian, the American Grand Slam is a novelty, but this is already her best performance of the year in the main series. In the other Grand Slam tournaments, Schnaider reached a maximum of the third round. In New York, she’s already in the fourth round. So far, she hasn’t lost a single set, conceding a maximum of eight games. Her powerful style and being a left-hander have helped her achieve high results this year. The Russian has already won three tournaments, including two under the guidance of her new coach Igor Andreev, with whom she has been working since the summer.
Jessica Pegula
The American has also not faced any seeded players so far, and this will be their first such encounter in the tournament. In all matches, Jessica hasn’t dropped a set, played at least 18 games, and won with a margin of no less than four games. Despite the small number of breakpoints, it can be said that she controls the matches, and the North American hard-court series has been favourable for her. In both Masters tournaments, she reached the final, winning in Toronto and losing in Cincinnati. Interestingly, in Canada, she ousted Diana Schneider in the semifinals (6-4, 6-3). Schnaider had chances to win in both sets, especially regretting her lost advantage on Jessica’s serve in the second set when she was leading 3-2.
Diana Shnaider - Jessica Pegula Prediction
Here too, there will be a battle, and the Russian won’t give up until the last moment. Both competitors are in good form and have passed their previous opponents without much trouble. Of course, the American's experience may play a role, but even if she wins, it will be with a minimal advantage. Betting on Schnaider with a positive handicap is the optimal choice.
