The Indian Wells is often called the breeding ground for young American players. During the course of this event, many young players from the host country get a chance to announce themselves on the big stage. Take the example of Clervie Ngounoue. The 17-year-old sensation from the United States is making significant strides and is on a giant-killing run in the tournament. Another American player, the 22-year-old Hailey Baptiste, is on the cusp of making it to the main draw of Indian Wells and faces Clara Tauson next.

Baptiste, who regularly features on the ITF circuit, aims to cross long hurdles in her tennis career. As a result, the Indian Wells tournament marks an important event for her. Let’s analyze her chances against Tauson.

Clara Tauson vs Hailey Baptiste: Preview

Baptiste is one of the few next-gen stars who is excelling in both singles, as well as, doubles. Earlier this year, she won a doubles title on the ITF circuit and also appeared in several finals in both singles and doubles. Her fine form of late has translated to her Indian Wells campaign. In the opening qualifying round here, she had a confident victory over Daria Snigur in straight sets.

Similarly, the 21-year-old Clara Tauson has had a decent run this year. She reached the second round of the Australian Open, losing against Victoria Azarenka. Additionally, she made a semifinal appearance at Canberra International. In the first qualifying round in Indian Wells, Tauson defeated Haley Giavara in straight sets.

Tauson vs Baptiste: Head-to-Head

The two are still in the early stages of their tennis careers. While Tauson is the 11th seed in the Indian Wells qualifying draw, Baptiste is seeded 23rd. Further, the duo has played against each other before once. Their only meeting came way back in 2021 when they locked horns in Chicago. Tauson came out on top in that encounter, winning the match in three sets.

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Prediction: Tauson to continue her winning run

Clara Tauson is the higher-ranked player between the two and the favorite to make it in the Indian Wells main draw. Given the history between them and their current form, Tauson is predicted to win the close encounter between them in three sets. However, Baptiste won’t give up without putting up a fight, and it promises to be an exciting encounter for fans to watch. Their match will take place later today.