Elena Rybakina might be dealing with some personal challenges, including some coaching drama, but it certainly hasn’t impacted her game! The Kazakh star has arrived at the WTA Dubai Championship in top form and has powered her way into the quarterfinals. A force to be reckoned with on hard courts, she’s still chasing her first title of the season. Standing in her way is a tough opponent in Sofia Kenin. Can Rybakina keep this momentum going and finally clinch that title?

Elena Rybakina vs Sofia Kenin: Preview

Elena Rybakina, who is ranked No. 7 in the world, reached the quarterfinals after defeating Moyuka Uchijima and Paula Badosa. Against Badosa, Rybakina fought back after losing the first set. She scored 129 points compared to Badosa’s 126. She played aggressively and hit 59 winners. On serve, Rybakina struck 10 aces and made 8 double faults. She lost her serve 5 times but saved 12 break points. She landed 64% of her first serves, winning 68% of those points. She also converted 4 out of 10 break points.

Sofia Kenin, who is ranked No. 56 in the world, reached the quarterfinals after beating Donna Vekic, Marta Kostyuk, and Jasmine Paolini. Against Paolini, Kenin secured a straight-set win. She scored 60 points compared to Paolini’s 34. She played aggressively and hit 26 winners. On serve, Kenin hit 1 ace and made no double faults. She won 84% of her first-serve points and 70% on her second-serve. She did not face a single break point. She also converted 4 out of 7 break points.

Rybakina vs Kenin: Head-to-head

With respect to their head-t0-head, Elena Rybakina has been the clear winner with a 100% win record.

• Indian Wells (2023): Round of 64; 7-6, 7-6
• Dubai Duty Free Championship (2020): Round of 32; 6-7, 6-3, 6-3

Prediction: Elena Rybakina to clinch the win over Sofia Kenin

Elena Rybakina has shown great resilience in recent matches as she has saved crucial points and pushed through tough battles. Her consistency over the past two months shows her determination to return to her best level. With her powerful serve and aggressive baseline game, she remains a dangerous opponent for anyone on the tour.

Sofia Kenin, on the other hand, has shown signs of resurgence with impressive wins in Dubai. Her ability to endure long, grueling matches showcases her fighting spirit and tactical awareness. However, she has struggled to close out key moments against higher-ranked opponents, which could be a concern against Rybakina’s aggressive style.

Given Rybakina’s 2-0 head-to-head advantage and her strong form, she enters this match as the favorite. While Kenin can challenge her, Rybakina’s consistency and power could prove too much, making her the likely winner in this clash.