Yafan Wang vs Maria Sakkari Prediction: Sakkari is too powerful for Wang

It is now confirmed that Yafan Wang and Maria Sakkari will play each other in the first round of the 2024 US Open. This encounter will pit a young-star-to-be, Wang, against a top-10 finisher, Sakkari. Both players would like to put an imprint at the start of this Grand Slam; Wang wants to make a mark, while Sakkari does not want to turn into another first-round casualty.

Wang has had a decent 2024 season and re-enters the Top 100 after floating in the rankings over the last couple of years. She has produced some solid performances on hard courts this year. However, Wang really struggles against those ranked higher than her and often hasn't been able to close out matches from winning positions.

Wang is known for her solid baseline game and the building of points with precision, looking to engage in longer rallies where, generally, her consistency and angles can drain her opponents and push them out of position. However, she can sometimes be let down by her serve, which can be a liability against the better players. Moreover, she occasionally lacks the finishing instinct at the end of points, which might prove costly against someone like Sakkari. Key for Wang will be to stay calm and focused during the rallies and look to capitalize on Sakkari's sometimes wayward forehand.

Sakkari had a great season, reaching the quarterfinals or further in many tournaments. An embodiment of athleticism and mental fortitude, Sakkari is a never-say-die player; she always gives a fight, most particularly during times that corners her.

Sakkari's game is built off an athleticism-based game with strong groundstrokes. She is very aggressive from the baseline, especially with the forehand, and she clearly tries to put more pressure on opponents by the extent of her own physical presence. Her serve is also a big weapon, one that helps her get on the front foot to start many of her points. She has a solid net game, so she can close points out quickly. Sakkari will probably try to dominate right from the start against Wang, not letting her find her rhythm with higher power.

There's a whole lot of physical and more powerful play at stake for Sakkari, which is pretty much important in the US Open's hard court. She has the better record for top-level matches and is also playing at her best this 2024 season.

If Wang can serve well and extend points to get Sakkari out of a rhythm, she might be able to sneak a set or get to a tiebreak, but an upset seems unlikely with Sakkari playing well currently.

This game is likely to be a test of Wang's resilience and firepower by Sakkari. Though Wang has the weaponry to trouble Sakkari, the Greek availability, the experience, and the physicality are expected to see her through to the next round.

• Under 22 Games at 1.6 Odds
• Under 20.5 Games at 1.85 Odds
• Maria Sakkari Win 2-0 at 1.66 Odds