The French Open’s second round features Elina Svitolina against Anna Bondar, with analysts predicting Svitolina’s experience and improved aggression will see her through, potentially in two or three sets. In another matchup, Clara Tauson is favored over Arantxa Rus, though Rus’s clay-court skills could pose challenges. Diana Shnaider is expected to advance against Dayana Yastremska, thanks to her strong defensive play. Lastly, Jelena Ostapenko is anticipated to overcome Caroline Dolehide, leveraging her powerful baseline game, although both players might face pressure during the matches. Predictions generally lean toward Svitolina, Tauson, Shnaider, and Ostapenko advancing.
The French Open progresses into the second round in Paris, with veteran Elina Svitolina among the notable players competing. Our panelists share their predictions for each match on day 4, featuring players like Jelena Ostapenko as well.
Elina Svitolina vs Anna Bondar
Jordan Reynolds: Bondar thrives on prolonging rallies and vexing her opponents. However, this strategy may not be effective against Svitolina. The Ukrainian can hold her own defensively and has embraced a more aggressive style in recent years. Svitolina in 2
Nurein Ahmed: Svitolina is arguably one of the best players in the past decade who hasn’t clinched the French Open. She has come close a few times, and at 30, her opportunities may be dwindling to secure her first Grand Slam. Nevertheless, she seems to be in excellent form on clay right now. I anticipate a straightforward progression to the next round. Svitolina in 3
Ilemona Onekutu: Svitolina’s defensive prowess and clay-court experience make her a formidable opponent, but Bondar’s audacious shot-making and heavy topspin could pose challenges if she finds her rhythm early. The Hungarian’s capacity to dominate play with her forehand will be crucial, while Svitolina will depend on her counterpunching and consistency to wear down her errors. Expect lengthy, strategic rallies with significant momentum shifts. Svitolina in 2
Diana Shnaider vs Dayana Yastremska
Jordan Reynolds: This match promises plenty of powerful strikes. The key disparity lies in Shnaider’s superior defensive skills, particularly on clay. If she delivers her best performance, she will advance. Shnaider in 2
Nurein Ahmed: Both Shnaider and Yastremska are proficient hitters. However, the courts demand control and stamina. For that reason, I’m leaning toward Shnaider, who showcases greater discipline in her baseline play. Shnaider in 2
Ilemona Onekutu: Expect an intense baseline duel between two heavy hitters. Yastremska’s flat power against Shnaider’s left-handed angles will determine who commands the rallies. Whichever player establishes consistency first will seize control. Look for quick, aggressive tennis with little room for error. Shnaider in 3
Clara Tauson vs Arantxa Rus
Jordan: Tauson must remain alert here. Although Rus has struggled this season, she excels on clay. The Dutch player has the potential to frustrate Tauson with her heavy topspin forehand. I still lean toward the Dane, but it could be a tight match. Tauson in 3
Nurein: Tauson struggled during the recent clay season, but this tournament is crucial. The Dane started strong by defeating Magda Linette in three sets. Tauson’s solid finish in that match gives me confidence she will overtake Rus. Tauson in 2
Ilemona: Tauson’s raw power clashes with Rus’ finesse on clay in this stylistic showdown. While the Dane’s aggressive baseline play could dominate, Rus’ experience and heavy topspin might disrupt her rhythm. Court positioning will be vital; if Tauson establishes control early, she’ll likely command the match. Anticipate physically demanding rallies with swings in momentum. Tauson in 2
Jelena Ostapenko vs Caroline Dolehide
Jordan: Ostapenko’s top performance on clay far surpasses Dolehide’s. It ultimately comes down to whether the unpredictable 2017 French Open champion can avoid having an off day. I’m betting the Latvian will prevail and move on to the third round. Ostapenko in 2
Nurein: Ostapenko faced difficulties in her first match but managed to come back and defeat Polina Kudermetova in three sets. Dolehide has a highly aggressive style, but her movement and rally endurance on clay lack stability. If Ostapenko capitalizes on Dolehide’s short balls, she will have the advantage. Ostapenko in 2
Ilemona: Ostapenko’s bold power will challenge Dolehide’s counterpunching on clay. While the Latvian’s first-strike approach could dominate, unforced errors could keep the match close if Dolehide manages to extend rallies. Expect brief, explosive exchanges with Ostapenko setting the pace—unless Dolehide’s consistency alters the rhythm. Ostapenko in 3
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images