The final WTA-500 semifinals of 2024 take place in Tokyo on Saturday. Olympic gold medalist Qinwen Zheng will face Diana Shnaider, while the 2020 Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin is set to battle Katie Boulter. We at LWOT predict both of those fascinating matchups, but which two players do you think will reach the final?
WTA Tokyo Semifinal Predictions
Sofia Kenin vs Katie Boulter
Head-to-head: Kenin 1-0 Boulter
2024 has been a miserable year overall for Kenin, but she has suddenly found some inspiration in Tokyo. She defeated Xinyu Wang, Clara Tauson in a three-set battle, and last week’s Ningbo Open champion Daria Kasatkina to reach the semifinal. Boulter dominated in all three of her matches, losing just 11 games in six sets played against Priscilla Hon, Kyoka Okamura, and 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu.
Two elements of this matchup are particularly important. Firstly, Boulter’s formidable serve in the moderately fast conditions at the tournament. She has only been broken once, and even a strong returner like Kenin will likely struggle if the Briton keeps serving well. The other important factor is how often Boulter dictates with her forehand in the rallies. Boulter’s forehand is superior, while Kenin’s backhand is much the better of the two.
Although the American has returned to form in Tokyo, the fast conditions make Boulter a slight favorite to reach her third final of 2024.
Prediction: Boulter in 3
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Qinwen Zheng vs Diana Shnaider
Head-to-head: first meeting
These two received byes in the opening round. Zheng overcame Moyuka Uchijima and Leylah Fernandez, while Shnaider only needed to beat Viktoriya Tomove after Sayaka Ishii withdrew before their quarterfinal.
Zheng and Shnaider are among the most improved players on the WTA Tour this year. Both women generate much power with their shots, although Zheng hits her forehand with more spin than her opponent. The Chinese player also possesses a slightly better serve. Shanider will try to rush Zheng’s forehand when it is possible, and the 20-year-old must not hesitate when she gets any chance to dictate the rallies.
The talented Shnaider can trouble anyone, but it is tough to go against Zheng after her excellent Asian swing so far. The Olympic gold medalist is backed to progress to the final in two competitive sets.
Prediction: Zheng in 2
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
