America’s Taylor Townsend has had a mixed season so far. While she has won the prestigious doubles titles, including the Australian Open, she has already made quite a few early exits from the singles events. Can she change her fortunes in the singles? Just a few days ago, Townsend shared a video clip highlighting her “crazy” practice season ahead of her Indian Wells campaign. She was seen practicing in the middle of bad weather conditions in California. It showcased her relentless drive to battle through any obstacles. Talking about obstacles, the 27-year-old has already overcome one in her first qualifier at the Indian Wells. Can she now beat her compatriot Varvara Lepchenko in the second qualifier? 

Taylor Townsend vs Varvara Lepchenko: Preview

Taylor Townsend has been a bit inconsistent in the singles event in the last few years. However, she secured a very impressive victory in her previous match. The American defeated Belgium’s Yanina Wickmayer quite comfortably by a 6-2,6-1 margin in the first qualifier at the BNP Paribas Open.

Her opponent in the next match, Varvara Lepchenko, also had a poor start to the season. However, she managed to seal a victory in her previous match against Romania’s Anca Todoni by 7-6(3),6-3.

Townsend vs Lepchenko: Head-to-Head

Taylor Townsend has never faced Varvara Lepchenko in her career. So, currently, their head-to-head record is 0-0. Who has the higher chance of sealing the deal in their first encounter?

Prediction: Townsend will win this match in straight sets

Despite having a horrid time in the singles events this year, Taylor Townsend might still have the upper hand in this all-American clash. Reason? Well, first and foremost, she has made more frequent main-draw appearances in her career than someone like Varvara Lepchenko. Apart from that, these playing conditions could well suit Townsend better than Lepchenko.

If we look at the numbers, although Townsend is currently ranked 89th in the world, she has a win-loss record of 2-4 this year. On the other hand, Lepchenko (124) is placed way below in the rankings, but she has a win-loss record of 4-4, according to the WTA Tour’s official website. However, Townsend’s dominating performance in her previous match will give her enormous confidence ahead of this battle against her compatriot.

Talking about their weapons, i.e., their playing styles, Varvara Lepchenko has a solid baseline game, and her incredible left-handed play often throws up challenges for her opponents. The 38-year-old veteran is more of a counterpuncher, and she also has a tricky serve that has the potential to unsettle Townsend.

Townsend needs to be a bit watchful in this epic battle. She is also a lefty and known for her serve-and-volley tactics. She has a big serve in her armory, and she can also generate some serious power with her forehands. So Lepchenko also needs to watch out for Townsend’s vicious slice shots and picture-perfect net play. The 27-year-old also has a good return game.

Considering various aspects, Taylor Townsend seems ahead in this battle of two left-handed Americans at the Indian Wells. The prediction is for the Australian Open doubles champion to win the match in straight sets.