It has been an exceptional week of tennis at the WTA Hong Kong Open. We have now reached the final and it is Katerina Siniakova to play Leylah Fernandez. Siniakova is seeking a second WTA title this season, while Fernandez is looking for her first of 2023. We at LWOT provide our prediction and analysis for the final in this article. But who do you think will win the title?
WTA Hong Kong Final Prediction
Leylah Fernandez vs Katerina Siniakova
Head-to-head: Fernandez 1-0 Siniakova
Both women have looked very impressive throughout the tournament. Fernandez has played extremely aggressive tennis all week, defying the reputation she has built as a counterpuncher. The Canadian was near unplayable in her wins against Mirra Andreeva, Linda Fruhvirtova and Anna Blinkova. Siniakova had been struggling since the end of the grass court season before the WTA Hong Kong Open. The Czech has a very complete game that has been built from her successful doubles career. She used that incredibly effectively to beat the athletic Martina Trevisan in the semifinal.
[cta id=4013 type=cta]
A few months ago this matchup may have been a case of Fernandez trying to absorb pressure from Siniakova. But the 2021 US Open runner-up is unlikely to take a backwards step here. Both players will look to be aggressive and take advantage of the fast conditions at the WTA Hong Kong Open. Each player is also very comfortable at the net, which is often a rarity on the WTA Tour. Fernandez’s net game is the most improved part of her game by a distance.
This will come down to which player executes their positive style more effectively. Overall, it is difficult not to back Fernandez. Her all-round game has been the most impressive of any player throughout the tournament. Siniakova deserves credit for her solid level throughout the tournament and undoubtedly has a chance. But there is a look of confidence to match the quality of Fernandez this week at the WTA Hong Kong Open. It is difficult to envisage the Canadian dropping her level now. The confidence of winning a tournament with her new brand of aggressive tennis could set up a big 2024 for the 21-year-old.
Prediction: Fernandez in 2
Main photo credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
