Monterrey Open 2023: Caroline Garcia vs Kaja Juvan preview, head-to-head, prediction, odds and pick
Match Details
Fixture: (1) Caroline Garcia vs Kaja Juvan
Tournament: Monterrey Open 2023
Round: First round (Round of 32)
Venue: Club Sonoma, Monterrey, Mexico
Category: WTA 250
Surface: Outdoor Hardcourt
Prize money: $259,303
Live telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | UK - Amazon Prime Video
Caroline Garcia vs Kaja Juvan preview
The opening round of the 2023 Monterrey Open will see the big-hitting Caroline Garcia take on the crafty Kaja Juvan in an exciting match-up on Monday.
Garcia, who is the top seed at this year's tournament, comes into the competition after a disappointing Middle East swing. She suffered early exits at both Doha and Dubai, losing against Maria Sakkari and Madison Keys.
Making a return to the American hardcourts since lifting the WTA Finals last year, the top seed will be hopeful of rediscovering her best tennis at the 2023 Monterrey Open.
Juvan, meanwhile, has also underperformed for the most part of the new season. Barring a first-round win over Selena Janicijevic at the Australian Open, the Slovenian is yet to post a main draw win on the Tour in 2023.
The youngster had a breakthrough season last year, reaching her first WTA final in Strasbourg — where she lost to Angelique Kerber in one of the best matches of the year — and peaking at a career-high working ranking of 58. She has, however, failed to carry the same momentum into the new year.
Caroline Garcia vs Kaja Juvan head-to-head
This will be the first career meeting between Garcia and Juvan, so their current head-to-head stands at a 0-0.
CarolinJe Garcia vs Kaja Juvan odds
(Odds will be added once they're available)
Caroline Garcia vs Kaja Juvan prediction
Caroline Garcia has had an underwhelming start to the season, suffering early exits Down Under despite her top billing. The Frenchwoman, who played some of her career's best tennis in the second half of 2022, will be looking to change her fortunes in this tournament.
The top seed possesses piercing groundstrokes off both wings and wins quite a few free points behind her first serve. She likes to take the ball early and will step out looking to take charge of the baseline.
Kaja Juvan, meanwhile, relies on her variety to win contests. The Slovenian likes to mix spins and keep her opponents guessing. She also possesses a lethal backhand and is a master at redirecting pace coming at her.
This encounter will pit Garcia's firepower against Juvan's court craft. But given the quick conditions in Monterrey, the underdog may find it hard to keep the top seed at bay for long.
Prediction: Garcia to win in three sets.