Italian Open 2024: Paula Badosa vs Diana Shnaider; Preview, Head-To-Head, Prediction

The going has been tough for Paula Badosa this year. Injuries coupled with inconsistent form have significantly affected her performance in 2024. Additionally, she also faced a huge setback in her personal life. Recently, she broke off with her ex-boyfriend, Stefanos Tsitsipas. Amid these saddening times, Badosa has made it to Rome where she’s playing in the Italian Open.

Unlike the previous tournaments this season, Badosa is putting on a confident display in Rome. She has entered the third round and will take on Diana Shnaider of Russia in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

Paula Badosa vs Diana Shnaider: Preview

The Spanish tennis beauty opened her campaign at the Australian Open, where she reached the third round. It remains her best performance to date this year as Badosa has had early exits from other tournaments. Once ranked as high as Number 2 in the world, Badosa has moved out of the top 100 of the WTA rankings. As a result, she will look for redemption when she faces Shnaider at the Italian Open.

On the other hand, 20-year-old Diana Shnaider is having a breakthrough year this season. She has already won a title at the Hua Hin Championships and reached the final of LTP Charleston Pro Tennis. She is swiftly rising up the ranks in the WTA rankings and is on the brink of the top 50. Thus, she’ll have extra motivation to prevail over Badosa in Rome.

Badosa vs Shnaider: Head-to-Head

Despite the Russian star still in the early days of her tennis career, a healthy rivalry is already brewing up between her and Badosa. The duo has faced each other thrice on the WTA Tour. While Shnaider has a solitary win over Badosa, the Spanish beauty has won two matches against her next opponent in Rome. The third-round clash at the Italian Open will be the fourth meeting between the two.

Prediction: Badosa to sail past Shnaider

The 26-year-old Badosa is showing glimpses of her prime form in Rome. Additionally, with her superior h2h record against Shnaider, she looks like a strong favorite to prevail in this contest. Badosa is predicted to win the match in straight sets and enter the fourth round. Who are you putting your bets on in this exciting clash? Let us know your views in the comments below.