Jason Collins
Dailysports's expert
Iga Swiatek
Jessica Pegula
On November 7, Iga Swiatek and Jessica Pegula will face off in the WTA Finals in Saudi Arabia. Here’s my betting suggestion for this match—should we expect a closely contested battle?
Iga Swiatek
The Polish player has been out for two months since the US Open, likely taking some time to rest, though it’s clear her form has dipped slightly. In her first match, she faced a tough challenge against Krejcikova, only managing to clinch victory through sheer determination—4-6, 7-5, 6-2. In her second match, Swiatek lost to Gauff 3-6, 4-6, though it was a competitive match. Currently, Swiatek is second in her group, but a semifinal spot isn’t yet guaranteed. At 23, she remains the World No. 2.
Jessica Pegula
Qualifying for the WTA Finals is already a significant accomplishment for the American, though she undoubtedly had higher aspirations. Pegula has lost both of her matches in straight sets, first to Gauff (2-6, 3-6) and then to Krejcikova (3-6, 3-6).
With no chance of advancing to the semifinals, Pegula lacks tournament motivation, though she’s unlikely to simply hand over the match. At 30, she is ranked sixth in the world and will likely fight until the end.
Match Facts
- Swiatek has won 30 of her 36 hard-court matches this season.
- Pegula has secured 27 wins in 38 matches on artificial surfaces.
- Odds for this match: Swiatek 1.38, Pegula 3.15.
Head-to-Head
The two players have faced off ten times, with Swiatek leading the series 6-4.
Prediction
Neither player is in peak form, though Swiatek is still considered the favorite. Primarily, her tournament motivation is still alive, which could make a big difference. This match may be unpredictable, but I’m betting on a win for Swiatek with a -3.5 game handicap.
