The first women’s semifinal at Wimbledon guarantees a first-time Grand Slam finalist, with Marta Kostyuk and Linda Noskova both looking to continue career-best runs at the All England Club. Our writers break down the matchup and make their predictions.
Wimbledon Women’s Semifinal Prediction
Marta Kostyuk vs Linda Noskova
Jordan:
Noskova’s quarterfinal victory against Elise Mertens is decent preparation for this challenge. Kostyuk shares the same impressive backhand and willingness to scrap in the rallies. However, the Ukrainian has a higher ceiling, as well as a greater ability to be aggressive in the rallies. She was outstanding against Jasmine Paolini, and I do not think she will be denied a place in the final.
Prediction: Noskova in 2
Zain:
Marta Kostyuk was just 6-5 at Wimbledon heading into this tournament and has now produced the best result of her career here as she faces Linda Noskova in the semifinals.
This is a great opportunity for both players to reach their first Slam final, in a match that will more or less be decided by which player produces the more dominant baseline level on the day.
Kostyuk will look to counterpunch and use aggressive shots when needed, while Noskova will look to control the pace of the match with her flatter groundstrokes. While Kostyuk recently gained the experience of playing a Major semifinal at the French Open, I just think Noskova’s game translates better to this surface as she continues what has been a career-best run at SW19.
Prediction: Noskova in 3
Nurein:
This is officially Marta Kostyuk’s best-ever season. And if there were any lingering questions about her adaptability on grass, then she’s answered them. But I still view Noskova as the slight favorite. She had possibly the best preparation, winning a tune-up event and testing herself against some of WTA’s elite. She’s able to strike through the court with very little backswing and has tremendous discipline with her shots. It’s likely to be one of the most evenly matched contests, but I’d give a slight edge to Noskova.
Prediction: Noskova in 3
Steen: Noskova on grass should have an edge but it’s not a dominant one. Kostyuk is playing the best she ever has on this surface, but Noskova’s flat hitting should be able to trouble her enough to gain the upper hand.
Prediction: Noskova in 2
Main Photo Credit: Smartframe Images
