🎾 Charleston WTA: Veronika Kudermetova vs Maria Mateas

🎾 Charleston WTA: Veronika Kudermetova vs Maria Mateas

🧠 Form & Context

🟨 Veronika Kudermetova

• 📉 Recent slump: Has not made it past the 2nd round in her last five tournaments.
• 📈 Decent start to 2025: Reached QF in Hobart and 4R at the Australian Open.
• 👻 Haunted by 2024: Failed to win multiple matches in 22 of 25 events last season.
• 🏆 Charleston champion (2021): Has suffered R1 exits twice but lifted the title three years ago.

🟥 Maria Mateas

• 🎟️ Wildcard entry: Fourth WTA main draw appearance, still seeking her first win.
• 📉 Tour struggles: Lost in straight sets in all three previous WTA main draw appearances.
• 🏆 ITF success: Reached three ITF finals in late 2023; four QFs in 2025 so far.
• ⚠️ Fitness concern: Arrives in Charleston following two consecutive retirements.

🔍 Match Breakdown

Kudermetova may not be at her peak, but she brings far more experience, shot tolerance, and firepower into this matchup. Mateas, a wildcard with limited WTA exposure and recent injury concerns, will be hard-pressed to keep up if Kudermetova finds rhythm early.

The Russian’s inconsistency opens the door slightly, but Mateas has yet to prove she can handle top-100 competition—let alone a former Top 10 player with a title at this venue.

🔮 Prediction

Pick: Kudermetova in straight sets

Unless Kudermetova completely unravels, she should take control early and move safely through this round. Mateas will need a major step up in level and fitness to challenge here.