Berlin 2023: Elena Rybakina vs Donna Vekic preview, head-to-head, prediction, odds and pick | bett1open
Match Details
Fixture: (2) Elena Rybakina vs Donna Vekic
Date: June 22, 2023.
Tournament: bett1open 2023.
Round: Second round (Round of 16).
Venue: Berlin, Germany.
Category: WTA 500.
Surface: Grass.
Prize money: $780,637.
Live telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | Canada - TSN | UK - Amazon Prime Video.
Elena Rybakina vs Donne Vekic preview
Second seed Elena Rybakina will take on Donna Vekic in the second round of the Berlin Open on Thursday.
The Kazakh has made a remarkable start to the season, chalking up 33 wins from 40 matches and title-winning runs at the Indian Wells and the Italian Open. She also secured runner-up finishes at the 2023 Australian Open and the Miami Open.
Rybakina entered the bett1open on the back of an ill-fated third-round exit at the 2023 French Open. The 24-year-old was forced to withdraw from Paris due to sudden illness, which ended her eight-match win streak on the women's tour.
Rybakina began her campaign in Berlin with a crushing victory over Polina Kudermetova. She defeated the Russian qualifier in straight sets 6-4, 6-2.
On the other hand, Donna Vekic has made a solid start to the season, chalking up 21 wins from 30 matches and a title-winning run at the Monterrey Open. She also reached the quarterfinals at the Australian Open.
The Croatian entered the bett1open on the back of early exits in Paris and Nottingham. She began her campaign with a brilliant win over Varvara Gracheva, outclassing the Russian in straight sets 6-3, 6-2.
Vekic will be looking to make a deep run in Berlin and build some momentum ahead of the grasscourt Major.
Elena Rybakina vs Donne Vekic head-to-head
Rybakina leads the head-to-head against Vekic 1-0. She defeated the Croatian most recently at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.
Elena Rybakina vs Donne Vekic odds
All odds are sourced by BetMGM.
Elena Rybakina vs Donne Vekic prediction
Both players have had successful seasons so far and will be eager to advance further in this prestigious grasscourt tournament in Berlin. As we delve into their skill sets and previous encounters, it becomes apparent that Elena Rybakina holds the upper hand and is the favorite to emerge victorious.
The second seed has been a force to be reckoned with this year. With an impressive win record and notable performances at major tournaments, her powerful game, characterized by her booming serve and aggressive groundstrokes, often overwhelms her opponents.
Rybakina possesses the ability to dictate play and control the tempo of the match, putting pressure on her adversaries.
On the other side of the net, Donne Vekic brings her own strengths and a determined mindset. She is known for her versatility and ability to adapt to different playing conditions. The Croatian displays a balanced game, utilizing her solid groundstrokes and court coverage to counter her opponent's aggression. Vekic's experience and mental resilience make her a tough competitor, capable of challenging higher-ranked opponents.
However, considering their skill sets and recent performances, it is expected that Rybakina's aggressive playing style will pose a significant challenge for Vekic. Her powerful serve and attacking groundstrokes can put the Croatian on the defensive, limiting her opportunities to dictate the rallies.
If Rybakina maintains her consistency and avoids unforced errors, she should be able to control the match and secure a victory. Her recent success, head-to-head advantage, and aggressive style of play make her the favorite to win their second-round clash at the Berlin Open.
Pick: Elena Rybakina to win in straight sets