Team Germany made an impressive start to its United Cup title defense, easily qualifying for the quarterfinals. Kazakhstan starts as an underdog against last year’s champions, but 2022 Wimbledon Champion Elena Rybakina will try to rally them to success in Perth. We at LWOT predict all three matches in the tie, but which team do you expect to reach the semifinals?
United Cup Quarterfinal Predictions: Germany vs Kazakhstan
Alexander Zverev vs Alexander Shevchenko
Head-to-head: First meeting
Shevchenko proved how dangerous he can be in his victory against Stefanos Tsitsipas in the group stage. The Kazakhstani ruthlessly attacked Tsitsipas’ backhand in that match, but that strategy will not work against Zverev. Although Shevchenko’s firepower makes him dangerous against anyone, Zverev’s defensive skills are superior to Tstisipas’. That, and his powerful serve against Shevchenko’s return, make the German a significant favorite to win.
Prediction: Zverev in 2
Elena Rybakina vs Laura Siegemund
Head-to-head: Rybakina 5-1 Siegemund
The head-to-head between the players does not reflect how tricky a matchup Siegemund is for Rybakina. In their last two meetings, Rybakina needed a deciding set tiebreak to triumph in Portoroz and was also taken to a third set at last season’s Wimbledon. The German’s craftiness and variety is a style Rybakina often struggles against and this contest will likely be competitive. However, the conditions in Perth suit the 2023 Australian Open runner-up more, which could help her win slightly more comfortably than their last two meetings.
Prediction: Rybakina in 2
Alexander Zverev/Laura Siegemund vs Elena Rybakina/Alexander Shevchenko
Head-to-head: First meeting
Defeating Zverev in singles will be very challenging, but the doubles matchup could be even more difficult for the Kazakhstanis. Neither Rybakina nor Shevchenko are accomplished doubles players. By contrast, Siegemund is a Grand Slam champion who formed an impressive partnership with Zverev at last year’s United Cup. That included an epic win together against Iga Swiatek and Hubert Hurkacz to seal the title for Team Germany. Another victory for the pair seems likely.
Prediction: Zverev/Siegemund in 2
Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
