Bianca Andreescu vs Jasmine Paolini Prediction: No easy win for Jasmine Paolini here

It's the US Open's Round of 128 that pits two of the more talented players against each other, creating what will be a really interesting match from a number of perspectives: contrasting styles and recent form. Both players have been gaining momentum into this Grand Slam event and will regard this contest as key to setting the tone in the tournament.

Andreescu has struggled to find consistency this season. Her recent performances are way off from their usual level, as she has exited the Canadian Open and Cincinnati early. Because of this, though she might have won the US Open in 2019, she goes into the match in mixed form, especially after she lost to the same Paolini twice in their last two encounters.

Thus, Andreescu will have to fall back on her strong aggressive baseline play and great shot-making. Much will depend on whether she can take charge of the points early and not allow Paolini to get into a rhythm. She will also have to work on reducing unforced errors, which have been a nemesis in recent matches.

Paolini is having one of her best seasons, showing a huge turnaround in the game apart from being consistent and going deep inside major tournaments. Back-to-back recent victories over Andreescu in majors have boosted her morale like never before; she has been quite a rival.

The head-to-head is currently led 2-0 by Paolini in 2024, with her victories at the French Open and Wimbledon. Both matches were closely fought, but the ability of Paolini to modify her game on different surfaces has given her the edge.

She is likely to do what is most effective: back herself to have a great defense and, simultaneously, be the one making the end of each rally. Mixing up her shots can really make Andreescu neutralize her power and further expose poor movement. What could be most instrumental in wearing Andreescu down will be Paolini's baseline consistency and recent form on hard courts.

Given Paolini's form and head-to-head record, she will be the marginal favorite going into the match. However, one cannot discount experience from Andreescu and US Open pedigree. It is expected to be an extremely competitive match. Paolini should have a slight advantage given her recent results, while Andreescu needs to raise her level massively to win. This could well go to three sets, considering that Andreescu has fought through so many encounters and Paolini is in great form.

• Jasmine Paolini (-1.5) Games at 1.6 Odds
• Over 21.5 Games at 1.81 Odds
• Total 2 Sets at 1.61 Odds