Shelby Rogers vs Jil Teichmann: Lexington Open Preview and Prediction

The Lexington Open continues to throw up surprises as an interesting clash takes place tonight with the World number 116, Shelby Rogers squaring off against the 63rd ranked Jil Teichmann in the first semifinal.

Rogers has played her best week of tennis so far. She came out on top winning in three sets against Misaki Doi in the round of 32. The American was unstoppable in the quarterfinal thrashing Canadian, Leylah Annie Fernandez 6-2 7-5. Despite having a low first-serve percentage of only 40%, Rogers delivered a comprehensive performance converting five of seven breakpoint opportunities. 

Rogers delivered the upset of the tournament edging past 23-time grand slam champion, Serena Williams in the quarterfinals.

Though she lost the first set 6-1, Rogers came back strong to win the next two sets 6-4 7-6. There were no signs of nervousness from Rogers as she played attacking tennis. Her first serve was on target as she clocked 98% and smashed five aces. 

On the other hand, Teichmann has surprised her detractors with a stupendous performance. She began with a straight-sets win over Anna Kalinskaya in the round of 32. The Swiss went up a level higher as she demolished 5th seed, Yulia Putinsteva 6-2 6-2 in the pre-quarterfinals. She converted six out of ten breakpoints in a ruthless performance. 

Another comprehensive win came in the quarters as she outlasted homegirl, Cici Bellis in straight sets.

Despite committing four double faults, there was no let down in intensity by Teichmann.  

Strengths of Rogers 

An effective first-serve, a powerful forehand and smart netplay are her biggest strengths. Though her attacking game can neutralize opponents, she needs to improve her court coverage. 

Strengths of Teichmann

While her forehand is the main weapon that fetches a lot of points, Teichmann's variation in groundstrokes is one of the best in the business. If she mixes up heavy topspin in her shots, Rogers could be in trouble. The Swiss needs to up the ante in the crucial points which was evident in her semifinal as she won the encounter on her seventh match point.

Head to Head record 

The two players have never faced each other on the tour before. While Rogers has come back from near death situations this week, Teichmann has not faced much trouble winning all her matches in straight sets. Playing her first WTA semifinal since 2016, Rogers would be the crowd favourite. 

Prediction - Shelby Rogers to win in three sets 

Featured image credits: Tennis Majors