Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA 1000 match.
Stearns in the semi-finals is a real sensation, considering she’s 42nd in the WTA rankings. On her way to this stage she’s spent a lot of forces, making her opponents to get weary too. This may be very important against Paolini, who is playing in front of her fans.
Jasmine Paolini
The main advantage for Paolini is the surface. She’s won 80% of the games played on clay. This is why she has a perfect chance to get the trophy in Rome. Paolini has beaten strong opponents in this tournament, namely Diana Shnaider (6:7, 6:4, 6:2) and Jeļena Ostapenko (7:5, 6:2).
Peyton Stearns
Stearns is lucky enough to get to the semi-finals. Her strongest opponent was Elina Svitolina (6:2, 4:6, 7:6), who is currently 14th in the WTA rankings. Even in the quarter-final game versus Naomi Osaka (№48) she needed three sets to win (6:4, 3:6, 7:6). Everything’s complicated for Stearns as she still lacks some experience and skills.
Jasmine Paolini vs Peyton Stearns Prediction
Paolini is way stronger. She won’t commit as many mistakes as the previous opponents of Stearns did. This is why Peyton has nothing to hope for in the semi-final. The favourite should win.
