The year 2024 has seen the rise of many young American stars. From Ben Shelton to Emma Navarro, these players are carrying their country’s hopes on their shoulders. Among them is the 22-year-old, Hailey Baptiste as well. The youngster is making big waves in the tennis circuit, both in singles as well as doubles. Aiming to continue her good form, Baptiste enters the Korea Open high on confidence. However, she has a monumental challenge ahead in the form of the top seed, Daria Kasatkina.

The Russian star is at the peak of her career and will look to clinch the title in Seoul. It promises to be an exciting battle between young blood and experience.

Daria Kasatkina vs Hailey Baptiste: Preview

Daria Kasatkina has constantly been close to top 10 in the WTA rankings for quite some time. It is a reflection of the consistency that she has shown over the past few seasons. Although Kasatkina failed to live up to the expectations at Grand Slams this season, she did win a title at the Rothesay International a few months back. Additionally, she reached the finals of the Charleston Open and the Abu Dhabi Open as well. However, she isn’t done yet and looks hungry for more.

Baptiste, on the other hand, is still exploring the WTA circuit, apart from playing on the ITF Tour. Although she has failed to dig deep in the tournaments on the WTA Tour, the American has had a consistent run on the ITF circuit as she has been in the top 4 of a few tournaments this year. In the first-round match at the Korea Open, Baptiste showed why she is ready for the top level with a commanding win over Sloane Stephens in straight sets. She will be confident going into the match against Kasatkina. The encounter is expected to be full of thrills.

Kasatkina vs Baptiste: Head-to-head

While Daria Kasatkina has been playing at the top level for quite a few years now, it is still early days in Baptiste’s career. As a result, the two are yet to face off against each other and the WTA Seoul second-round match will be the maiden encounter between them. With the unpredictability factor high, fans can expect some exciting rallies in the match.

Prediction: Kasatkina set to get off to a winning start

Daria Kasatkina is among the top players on the WTA Tour and is ranked 13th in the world. On the other hand, Baptiste lies just outside the top 100 at the 105th position. Furthermore, Kasatkina has a slightly greater win percentage in 2024 as compared to her opponent. She has won 30 of the 48 matches that she has played in, while Baptiste has won 33 and lost 22. Another major weakness in Baptiste’s game is her return of serves. In her first-round loss at WTA Guadalajara, she won just 1 point out of 25 on returns.

As a result, Daria Kasatkina is expected to win the match against Baptiste in straight sets and enter the next round. The encounter between them will be played on the Center Court tomorrow.