United Cup Prediction: Barbora Krejcikova vs Elise Mertens
03:00 AM EST
The Line: Betting Odds: Barbora Krejcikova -140 / Elise Mertens -104
Barbora Krejcikova vs Elise Mertens Preview
Barbora Krejcikova’s United Cup debut has been flawless so far as the two-time Grand Slam champion won all three matches she was involved in. In the opening tie of the group stage, Czechia defeated Norway and Krejcikova took part in it, beating Malene Helgo in straight sets.
Although Czechia lost to Australia in the second tie, Krejcikova notched a singles win to keep the tie even after beating the fast-rising youngster Maya Joint 6-4, 6-1 in an hour and 17 minutes. Krejcikova’s third win in the competition was in mixed doubles when she partnered with Adam Pavlasek against Norway. Czechia qualified as the best runner up Sydney.
Elise Mertens has played a crucial role in steering Belgium into the quarterfinals of the United Cup. Belgium topped their group after beating Canada 3-0 in what was one of the most sensational results of the week. Mertens has won three of the four matches she has taken part in, and is 2-0 in singles.
She beat Zhu Lin 6-2, 6-2 in her first match as Belgium narrowly escaped with a win against China. After Zizou Bergs put them in front against Canada, Mertens won the women’s singles match in the tie against the WTA Newcomer of the Year, Victoria Mboko, 6-3, 3-6, 6-3 in two hours and seven minutes. Mertens is 1-1 in mixed doubles.
Barbora Krejcikova vs Elise Mertens Head-To-Head
Krejcikova and Mertens have never met before, so this will be their first career meeting.
Barbora Krejcikova vs Elise Mertens Prediction
Krejcikova and Mertens could potentially face off in mixed doubles, so this is unlikely to be their only meeting on Thursday. But in singles, I’d give Krejcikova the edge. The former Wimbledon champion is crafty and has a better ability to change patterns. She will drag Mertens out of her comfort zone and break her rhythm and repetition.