It’s been an exciting week at the WTA Hobart International. Second seed Garbine Muguruza withdrew from her quarterfinal clash with Veronika Kudermetova with a viral illness. Top seed Elise Mertens was bounced by a resurgent Heather Watson. Australia’s Lizette Cabrera delighted her countrymen with stellar play before falling to Elena Rybakina. Now we’re down to the final four.
Who will move on to the final?
WTA Hobart International Semifinal Predictions
Zhang Shuai vs Veronika Kudermetova
Head to head: First meeting
Zhang Shuai will face Veronika Kudermetova in the semifinals. The fourth seed has spent considerably more time on the courts than Kudermetova as she’s reached the doubles semifinal alongside Peng Shuai. Will that added time serve to sharpen the Chinese skills or leave her low on energy? In truth, she seems to be managing well and showing no deficiencies in her title quest.
Veronika Kudermetova has easily moved through the draw losing a mere 11 games. Certainly a walkover thanks to Garbine Muguruza’s illness has save the Russian rising star from a protracted battle. Undoubtedly, Kudermetova will be the fresher of the two in this clash. Yet, Zhang will be the toughest opponent the 22-year-old will face thus far.
Zhang’s ability to extend rallies and her controlled aggression will prove a challenge for Kudermetova. Keeping the unforced errors count down will be key for Kudermetova. However, I see Zhang pushing the Russian to go for too much too soon.
Prediction: Zhang in 3
Heather Watson vs Elena Rybakina
Head to head: First meeting
Qualifier Heather Watson impressed during her quarterfinal clash with top seed Elise Mertens. In a three hour, 33 minute bout, the Briton’s footwork remained stellar, allowing her to setup shots with power and precision. Even with a scoreline deficit, Watson showed determination and fortitude, grabbing back the momentum Mertens had fought hard to claim. It’s a remarkable resurgence for Watson who finally emerged victorious against Mertens in four meetings. But, will the 27-year-old have enough left in the tank during her sixth singles match of the tournament?
After two straightforward wins, Elena Rybakina was pushed mightily by Aussie wildcard Linette Cabrera. The 20-year-old dropped the first set as Cabrera attacked the Kazahstani’s second serve. Rybakina fought back, upping her first serve percentage and sealing the win in the decider. Against Watson, it will be important for Rybakina to excel on her first serve delivery, lest Watson take control of the point. Rybakina simply cannot rely on winning second serves with Watson’s ability to attack.
I expect this will be another long, three set battle. But, Rybakina is the fresher of the two and should edge this out for her second final appearance of 2020.
Prediction: Rybakina in 3
Main Photo from Getty.
