The semifinals are set at the WTA Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open, and it’s a brilliant lineup with three of the top five seeds reaching the last four. Former champion Leylah Fernandez is the favourite to once again lift the title, but has to deal with her talented compatriot first. As always, we at LWOT will offer predictions for both matches. But who will advance to the finals?
WTA Hong Kong Semifinal Predictions
Maya Joint vs Cristina Bucsa
Head-to-Head: first meeting
It has been a remarkable season for the 19-year-old Maya Joint, and she has the chance to make it even better. Joint defeated Himeno Sakatsume in a closely fought match and will play in her fifth semifinal of the season. One more win, and she will make her top-30 debut next week. Cristina Bucsa got a walkover in her quarterfinal match after Belinda Bencic withdrew, and will play in her first-ever semifinal at the tour level. The Spaniard would be the fresher player coming into this match, but she has never been at this stage before, which gives Joint the advantage.
Prediction: Joint in 3
Leylah Fernandez vs Victoria Mboko
Head-to-Head: first meeting
This is a big match for Canadian tennis as the present and future will clash for the first time. #2 seed Leylah Fernandez got a commanding win over the in-form Sorana Cirstea and continues her great form. This is her third semifinal in three appearances here, and she must have the title in her sights. However, she will face her toughest opponent this week and can’t afford a drop in level.
Victoria Mboko played a great match before her opponent, Anna Kalinskaya, retired due to illness. Mboko saved all six break points with some clutch serving and is guaranteed to make her top 20 debut next week. I expect a close match, but Fernandez’s experience and form give her a slight advantage.
Prediction: Fernandez in 3
Main Photo Credit: David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports
