Only four players remain in contention at the 2020 WTA Shenzhen Open. Ranking wise, none were expected to make it to Friday. Who will advance to the final in China?<\/p>\n
Head to Head:<\/strong> Muguruza 1-0 Alexandrova<\/p>\n The first semifinal features a former Major champion who is trying to regain her once formidable level and a player in the midst of the best stretch of her career. Sitting at a career-high ranking of No. 34, Alexandrova is projected to jump at least one spot next Monday.<\/p>\n As expected, Muguruza had her hands full with the pesky Zarina Diyas in the quarters, prevailing 6-4 2-6 6-4. The Spaniard hit 13 aces<\/a>, including a match-clinching dinger. I was fairly impressed with her ability to mix her usual aggressiveness with a dose of patience. She hit some defensive lobs that allowed her to recover her court position rather than chase a hero-shot from anywhere. Conchita Mart\u00ednez<\/a>\u2019s tactical input will help Muguruza a ton.<\/p>\n Afterward, Alexandrova upended local favorite Qiang Wang 3-6 6-4 6-3, overcoming a 2-0 deficit in the second. Once her game started clicking, the Russian never looked back.<\/p>\n According to Tennis Abstract\u2019s ELO Ratings<\/a>, Alexandrova (1825.3) is currently stronger than Muguruza (1784.1) on hard. However, I think the Spaniard will handle Alexandrova\u2019s flat game from the baseline.<\/p>\n Prediction: Muguruza in 3<\/em><\/p>\n