Coco Gauff has a chance to respond strongly after her early loss last week in Doha on Day 3 of the WTA Dubai Duty-Free Tennis Championships. The world No. 3’s match is one of several scheduled for Day 3. As always, we at LWOT predicts all the action, split between four articles.
WTA Dubai Day 3 Predictions
Diana Shnaider vs Linda Noskova
Head-to-head: First meeting
Both players play aggressively and try to control the rallies whenever possible. Shnaider’s ability to dig in and play defense is superior to Noskova’s, meaning the Czech must rely more on her powerful hitting. Although Noskova showed how dangerous she is by almost beating Iga Swiatek in Doha, Shnaider’s more rounded game is backed to win this battle of the talented young players.
Prediction: Shnaider in 3
Sofia Kenin vs Marta Kostyuk
Head-to-head: First meeting
There will undoubtedly be many long rallies in this contest between two players with similar playing styles. Each woman is strong in defense and possesses excellent backhands. At her best, the 2020 Australian Open champion Kenin’s shotmaking is slightly superior, which helped her beat Donna Vekic in the last round. However, Kostyuk is a more reliable player and Kenin tends to get frustrated when she misses shots to finish points against great athletes like the Ukrainian.
Prediction: Kostyuk in 2
Karolina Muchova vs Emma Raducanu
Head-to-head: First meeting
Raducuanu’s victory against Maria Sakkari in the opening round ended a run of four consecutive defeats. The 2021 US Open champion will almost certainly need to play even better against Muchova, who was at her majestic best in the opening round. If the former French Open runner-up’s forehand and serve are working well in the fast Dubai conditions, it could be a tough day for Raducanu.
Prediction: Muchova in 2
Coco Gauff vs McCartney Kessler
Head-to-head: First meeting
Kessler easily beat last week’s Qatar TotalEnergies Open champion Amanda Anisimova in the opening round. Although an impressive win on paper, Anisimova understandably lacked energy after her efforts in Doha. Gauff should be raring to go after failing to win a match at the same tournament. The 2023 US Open winner rarely loses two consecutive matches, and I do not expect that to happen against her compatriot Kessler.
Prediction: Gauff in 2
Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
