Jennifer Brady vs Cori Gauff: Lexington Open Preview and Prediction

An all-American clash is set to enthrall fans as Jennifer Brady locks horns against Cori Gauff in the second semifinal of the Lexington Open tonight.

World number 49 Brady has been in ruthless form this week having won all her matches in straight sets. She kick-started her campaign winning 6-2 6-1 against Heather Watson. Smashing 10 aces and winning 70% of her first-serve points, Brady was unstoppable. She continued her good touch outplaying the sixth seed, Magda Linette 6-2 6-3 in the pre-quarterfinals. Linette had no answers to Brady's all-round game as the American hit seven aces and converted all her breakpoint opportunities.

There was no room for complacency in the quarterfinals as Brady dished up another comprehensive performance demolishing Marie Bouzkova 6-1 6-2. 

On the other hand, Gauff has had some close shaves in her path to the semifinals. She began with a tight 7-5 7-5 win over Caroline Dolehide. The prodigy stood tall as she edged past second seed, Aryna Sabalenka 7-6 4-6 6-4. The 16-year-old displayed great match awareness converting seven out of 12 breakpoint opportunities and blasting 37 winners. Despite committing 10 double faults, Gauff survived. 

She started slowly losing the first set against the eighth seed, Ons Jabeur in the quarterfinals. However, she back to win the next two sets 6-4 6-1 to pocket the match. 

Strengths of Brady

Her big-serve and fast gameplay make Brady a dream to watch when she is in full flow. While the American has improved her groundstrokes by depending on her formidable forehand, she will look to devote more attention to her second-serve. 

Strengths of Gauff

Despite facing a tough draw in the tournament, Gauff has come out on top displaying immense maturity. Her effective court-coverage and controlling the rallies with her powerful first-serve are her weapons. The American's forehand is a bit vulnerable. She needs to reduce her count of double faults having notched up 21 in her last two matches. 

Head to Head record 

The two players are meeting each other for the first time on tour. While Brady will be banking on her fantastic form to sail through to the finals, Gauff will depend on her never-say-die attitude to win the match.

Prediction - Coco Gauff to win in three sets 

Featured image credits: Tennis World USA