Elena Rybakina didn't play in Indian Wells, but she's back at the 2024 Miami Open, where she made the final last year, and this year, she will start against Clara Tauson.
The draw wasn't the best for Rybakina, even though she's one of the best players in the world who really doesn't fear any opponent. Tauson is a very capable player on her best day, so players usually want to avoid her that early in the tournament.
It's going to be a complicated matchup because Rybakina hasn't played in a while. She didn't play in Indian Wells and might have to shake off some rust in this one. I don't doubt that she'll do it because she's been amazing this year, outside of a few slip-ups.
Head-to-head:
Rybakina and Tauson have played before, but that match was a long time ago. It was back in 2019 when both were quite unknown players. The Kazakhstani player was able to win that match in two sets, even though clay might suit Tauson a bit more.
This match will be played on hard courts, which will suit Rybakina more, but the Dane is a capable hitter as well. She's had some struggles in recent months, but for the most part, she possesses a very dangerous skillset, which you need to take seriously.
| Elena Rybakina | Clara Tauson | |
| 1 | H2H | 0 |
| 4 | Rank | 91 |
| 24 | Age | 21 |
| 17-3 | 2024 W/L | 10-8 |
| 306-135 | Career W/L | 202-184 |
Prediction:
For the most part, I think Rybakina will be fine here. She was able to get some practice days ahead of this event, so that should be enough for her to have a decent level at which to start.
I do think that she might have some struggles early, but with time, it will certainly overpower her opponent. Tauson is a good hitter, but she can be countered by equally good hitting, which Rybakina possesses. I don't think she can really hit through Rybakina.
Prediction: Elena Rybakina will win in two sets.
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