We\u2019ve reached the quarterfinal stage at the WTA Qatar Total Open in Doha. It\u2019s been an interesting week with surprising upsets. The much anticipated clash between World #1 Ashleigh Barty and the hottest player on tour, Elena Rybakina was not to be. Rybakina was forced to withdraw with an abductor injury.<\/p>\n
After a shaky start to the year, Amanda Anisimova was starting to find some good form, poised for a deep run in Doha. Unfortunately, the 17-year-old American withdrew ahead of her third round clash with Russian Svetlana Kuznetsova. In a statement, Anisimova stated she was not feeling well.<\/p>\n
In other third round action, Ons Jabeur scored her biggest career win, shocked Karolina Pliskova. The Tunisian rising star outlasted the 2017 champion, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3 to punch her ticket to the quarterfinals. Jabeur next plays Petra Kvitova for a spot in the semifinals.<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s a look at the quarterfinal matches. Who\u2019ll reach the semis?<\/p>\n
Head to head: <\/strong>Zheng 2-1 Sabalenka<\/p>\n Zheng Saisai\u2019s run in Doha has been remarkable, albeit difficult. In three rounds, she\u2019s faced two seeded players. Both Marketa Vondrousova and Kiki Bertens pushed the Chinese to a decider. Yet, Zheng found a way through. It\u2019s been a gritty, determined performance hallmarked by stellar defense. Across the net, Sabalenka has spent less time on the court, and has been hitting with precision and power. Zheng\u2019s ability to retrieve will all but disappear against Sabalenka\u2019s power. If the Belarusian can maintain the control and consistency, expect a straight sets win.
\nPrediction: Sabalenka in 2<\/em><\/p>\n