WTA Dubai Day 2 Predictions: Ostapenko, Fernandez, and More in Action
Day two at the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships promises a compelling slate of matches, featuring several prominent players vying for a place in the next round. A total of 14 matches are scheduled, offering a full day of competitive tennis. Here’s a detailed look at some of the key contests and our predictions for each.
Jelena Ostapenko vs. Anna Kalinskaya
Head-to-head: Kalinskaya 3-0 Ostapenko
Jelena Ostapenko will be looking to rediscover her best form as she faces Anna Kalinskaya, a player who has historically proven to be a difficult matchup for the Latvian. Kalinskaya boasts a perfect 3-0 record against Ostapenko, having won all their previous encounters in straight sets, including a 6-4, 7-5 victory at this very tournament in 2024.
Kalinskaya has demonstrated strong form in the early stages of the 2026 season, showcasing greater consistency in crucial moments. Both players are known for their aggressive, power-hitting styles, but Kalinskaya’s ability to maintain a higher level of play under pressure gives her a significant edge. While Ostapenko’s recent performance in Doha offered a glimpse of improvement, Kalinskaya’s head-to-head dominance and current form make her the clear favourite.
Prediction: Kalinskaya in 2
Leylah Fernandez vs. Janice Tjen
Head-to-head: Tjen 1-0 Fernandez
Leylah Fernandez seeks redemption against Janice Tjen after a surprising loss to the Dutch player at the Australian Open earlier this year. The Canadian struggled to find her rhythm in the first few months of 2026, but she recently displayed encouraging signs of form with a notable first-round victory over 13th seed Liudmila Samsonova. This rematch presents Fernandez with an opportunity to avenge her earlier defeat and build momentum.
Tjen has been steadily developing her game, highlighted by a powerful forehand and a growing confidence on the court. While she has yet to achieve significant breakthroughs in main draw tournaments, her potential is undeniable. Fernandez, motivated by her previous loss and armed with valuable experience from Melbourne, is expected to approach this match with a renewed determination. Her experience and tactical versatility should prove decisive in securing a hard-fought win.
Prediction: Fernandez in 3
Paula Badosa vs. Katerina Siniakova
Head-to-head: First meeting
Paula Badosa continues her quest to regain her top form in 2026, a season marked by inconsistency and early exits. Currently outside the top 60, the former world No. 2 faces a challenging path back to the elite ranks. Her opponent, Katerina Siniakova, is also navigating a period of fluctuating results but remains on the verge of re-entering the top 40.
This marks the first-ever meeting between Badosa and Siniakova, adding an element of unpredictability to the match. Both players have struggled with consistency, making it difficult to definitively favour one over the other. However, Siniakova’s recent resilience – she hasn’t suffered consecutive losses since last September – suggests a greater level of stability. This trend is likely to continue against a Badosa who appears to be lacking her usual sharpness.
Prediction: Siniakova in 3
Amanda Anisimova vs. Barbora Krejcikova
Head-to-head: Krejcikova 1-0 Anisimova
Amanda Anisimova enters her match against Barbora Krejcikova as the slight favourite, largely due to her stronger recent form and proven proficiency on hard courts. The American has demonstrated a higher win rate and a tendency to close out matches efficiently, winning a greater share of points, games, and sets compared to her opponent.
However, Barbora Krejcikova remains a formidable opponent, possessing tactical flexibility and composure in pressure situations. She currently leads their head-to-head 1-0, having won their only previous encounter in straight sets. Krejcikova’s ability to extend rallies and disrupt Anisimova’s rhythm could prove crucial. Despite Krejcikova’s capabilities, Anisimova’s current form and hard-court expertise suggest she is well-positioned to advance.
Prediction: Anisimova in 3
The WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships is shaping up to be a thrilling event, with these matches offering a glimpse of the talent and competitive spirit that define women’s tennis. As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more captivating contests and surprising results.
