The WTA Merida Open has been given 500-level status this year after impressive attendance figures in 2024. That means the entry list is much more impressive than last year. It includes Wimbledon semifinalist Donna Vekic, who will play her opening match on Day 1. As always, we at LWOT predict all the matches, but which players do you expect to reach the next round?

WTA Merida Day 1 Predictions

Anhelina Kalinina vs Leolia Jeanjean

Head-to-head: First meeting

Both women could use a good run in Merida. Kalinina has only won two matches since reaching the semifinal of the Brisbane International in the season’s opening week. Jeanjean’s last completed match was at the Australian Open over a month ago. The Frenchwoman would be the underdog in this contest under any circumstances, but her rustiness makes overcoming Kalinina even more challenging.

Prediction: Kalinina in 2

Magdalena Frech vs Elina Avenesyan

Head-to-head: Avanesyan 1-0 Frech

Frech would have been a considerable favorite in this matchup 12 months ago. However, Avanesyan has considerably improved on hardcourts since then. There will undoubtedly be several long rallies between two players who thrive more in defense than attack. Despite Avanesyan’s improvements, Frech’s slightly greater firepower makes her the favorite.

Prediction: Frech in 3

Maya Joint vs Julia Grabher

Head-to-head: First meeting

18-year-old Joint has won many matches this season and is developing quickly. By contrast, Grabher’s last victory was during the season’s opening week at the ASB Classic in Auckland. Joint’s power for such a young player is impressive, and I expect her to overwhelm Grabher.

Prediction: Joint in 2

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Jessica Bouzas Maneiro vs Renata Jamrichova

Head-to-head: First meeting

17-year-old Jamrichova, who has won the Australian Open and French Open junior titles, could be a future star like Joint. Is she ready to beat a player as solid and relentless as Bouzas Maneiro? Probably not. Jamrichova will almost certainly hit some impressive winners, but the Spaniard’s toughness should be enough to win.

Prediction: Bouzas Maneiro in 2

Donna Vekic vs Emiliana Arango

Head-to-head: First meeting

Vekic has not started 2025 as she would have liked. The Olympic silver medalist had a decent run to the fourth round of the Australian Open but lost in the opening rounds in Adelaide, Doha, and Dubai. Despite that, Arango beating her would be a significant upset. The Colombian relies almost solely on defense to win her matches, and Vekic will dominate the match if she plays at 50% of her best level.

Prediction: Vekic in 2

Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports