WTA Austin – Day 3 Predictions

Kamilla Rakhimova vs. Oksana Selekhmeteva

Head-to-head: Rakhimova leads 2–1

Rakhimova snapped her early-season struggles by earning her first main-draw win of 2026 in the opening round, defeating Anna Bondar in straight sets. That result should provide a significant confidence boost as she looks to build momentum this week.

Selekhmeteva has climbed into the Top 100 through steady results on the lower-tier circuit. Her timing on returns and ability to generate depth helped neutralize Alycia Parks’ power in the previous round. However, Rakhimova’s baseline control and ability to dictate points may prove decisive. If she maintains her composure and consistency, she should be able to pressure Selekhmeteva into taking risks.

Prediction: Rakhimova in 2 sets

Rebeka Masarova vs. Whitney Osuigwe

Head-to-head: Osuigwe leads 1–0

Masarova faces mounting pressure with ranking points to defend in the coming weeks. Already outside the Top 100, she cannot afford another early exit. A win here would help steady her season.

Osuigwe, meanwhile, is coming off an impressive victory over Elizabeth Mandlik — her 11th win of the year — and is chasing her first WTA quarterfinal appearance. While Masarova possesses the heavier groundstrokes, Osuigwe prevailed in their only previous meeting. If rallies extend, Osuigwe’s consistency and movement could once again test Masarova’s shot tolerance.

Prediction: Osuigwe in 3 sets

Yuan Yue vs. Dalma Galfi

Head-to-head: Tied 1–1

Yuan lifted the Austin title two years ago but struggled last season, exiting in the first round. Now back in the main draw as a late lucky loser following Jessica Pegula’s withdrawal, she seized her opportunity by saving three match points to defeat Rebecca Sramkova.

Galfi ended Bianca Andreescu’s comeback bid in the first round, earning her first career win in Austin. Yuan’s compact backhand and ability to absorb pace were key in her previous match and should serve her well again. Her familiarity with the conditions may also give her a slight edge.

Prediction: Yuan in 3 sets

Nikola Bartunkova vs. Taylor Townsend

Head-to-head: First meeting

Townsend returned to competition after the Australian Open and survived a tough three-set battle against lucky loser Linda Fruhvirtova, saving a match point along the way. Originally scheduled to face Varvara Gracheva before a withdrawal, Townsend now meets another Czech opponent.

Bartunkova has enjoyed a strong start to the season, collecting notable wins and playing with confidence. Her aggressive, fearless style brought early success, including statement victories at the year’s first Grand Slam. While Townsend’s variety and net skills make her dangerous, Bartunkova’s direct attacking game could disrupt the American’s rhythm.

Prediction: Bartunkova in 3 sets