Sunday marks the continuation of the WTA Miami Open’s Round of 32. This article offers predictions for key matchups involving Jessica Pegula, Elena Rybakina, Madison Keys, and Ekaterina Alexandrova. Other significant clashes, such as Aryna Sabalenka vs. Caty McNally, are discussed in a separate piece.
Miami Open Day 6 Match Previews
Ekaterina Alexandrova vs. Jaqueline Cristian
Head-to-Head Record: Alexandrova 1-1 Cristian
Jaqueline Cristian, known for her tenacity, might pose a challenge for the powerful Alexandrova. However, Cristian’s defensive style typically thrives on clay. On a hard court, maintaining consistent rallies against a formidable opponent like Alexandrova will likely be more difficult for Cristian, which could be the deciding factor.
Forecast: Alexandrova in 2 sets
Elena Rybakina vs. Marta Kostyuk
Head-to-Head Record: Rybakina 4-1 Kostyuk
Marta Kostyuk often finds it challenging to compete against higher-ranked players who possess greater power. The Ukrainian typically doesn’t excel at redirecting pace against baseline hitters. Given Rybakina’s current form and high caliber, an upset in this match appears highly improbable.
Forecast: Rybakina in 2 sets
Madison Keys vs. Qinwen Zheng
Head-to-Head Record: Keys 1-0 Zheng
Qinwen Zheng secured a straightforward win against Sloane Stephens in the prior round. Although a solid victory, Stephens, a former US Open champion, is past her peak. Keys will provide a more accurate measure of Zheng’s current form, especially after her return from a significant injury. While Zheng’s talent allows her to challenge top players when at her best, her inconsistent results post-injury suggest she might not yet be prepared to overcome an opponent of Keys’ caliber.
Forecast: Keys in 3 sets
Jessica Pegula vs. Leylah Fernandez
Head-to-Head Record: Pegula 2-1 Fernandez
Their last two encounters have been fiercely contested, with Pegula securing a win in a decisive third-set tiebreak at the Cincinnati Open, followed by Fernandez’s 6-3, 1-6, 7-5 victory in Washington. Despite these close historical matches, the reigning finalist, Pegula, is favored for a more straightforward win here. The court conditions are ideal for her playing style, while Fernandez has had a rather unconvincing start to the 2026 season.
Forecast: Pegula in 2 sets
