Day two at WTA Dubai promises a feast of tennis, with a lineup of prominent players ready to compete in 14 exciting matches. As always, LWOT is here to provide our insights and predictions for every scheduled encounter, including anticipated clashes like Elisabetta Cocciaretto vs Emma Raducanu and Jaqueline Cristian vs Victoria Mboko. Who will emerge victorious?
WTA Dubai Day 2 Predictions
Jelena Ostapenko vs Anna Kalinskaya
Head-to-head: Kalinskaya 3-0 Ostapenko
Having seemingly overcome a patch of poor form with a robust showing in Doha, Jelena Ostapenko now faces a formidable and familiar opponent in Anna Kalinskaya, who has historically dominated their head-to-head. Kalinskaya boasts a perfect 3-0 record against Ostapenko, securing all her victories in straight sets, notably a 6-4, 7-5 win at this very tournament just two years prior.
The Russian has demonstrated strong form early in 2026, exhibiting greater consistency during crucial points. Both players are renowned for their powerful hitting, setting the stage for an intense battle. However, Kalinskaya’s steady play and a clear psychological edge from their past encounters position her as the likely winner.
Prediction: Kalinskaya in 2
Leylah Fernandez vs Janice Tjen
Head-to-head: Tjen 1-0 Fernandez
Following a disappointing defeat to Janice Tjen at the Australian Open, Leylah Fernandez is eager for a chance at redemption at WTA Dubai. The Canadian, who endured a challenging start to 2026, recently found her rhythm by upsetting the 13th seed Liudmila Samsonova in the opening round. Now, fueled by the memory of their last encounter, Fernandez prepares to face Tjen once more, determined to turn the tables.
Tjen, known for her considerable talent and a potent forehand, will undoubtedly present a stern test. Despite her flashes of brilliance, she has yet to make a significant breakthrough in main draws. Fernandez will be highly motivated, aiming to leverage her recent experience and momentum from Melbourne to secure a vital win and truly kick-start her 2026 season.
Prediction: Fernandez in 3
Paula Badosa vs Katerina Siniakova
Head-to-head: first meeting
Paula Badosa continues her quest to rediscover her top form in 2026. With a 2-4 win-loss record this season, early tournament exits have seen her ranking plummet from the top 25 to outside the top 60. The former world #2 faces a significant challenge as she strives to regain her competitive edge.
Her upcoming opponent, Katerina Siniakova, is also grappling with inconsistent performances but is on the verge of re-entering the top 40. This will be their inaugural meeting, and with both players currently struggling for form, forecasting the outcome is particularly difficult. While Badosa at her best would typically be the favorite, her recent woes introduce considerable uncertainty. The Czech player has not suffered back-to-back losses since last September, a trend that is expected to continue against an opponent who is clearly out of sorts.
Prediction: Siniakova in 3
Amanda Anisimova vs Barbora Krejcikova
Head-to-head: Krejcikova 1-0 Anisimova
Amanda Anisimova heads into this Dubai encounter with a slight edge in favoritism, primarily due to her more robust recent form and superior efficiency on hard courts. The American has demonstrated a higher recent win rate and typically concludes matches more swiftly, accumulating a greater proportion of points, games, and sets compared to her opponent.
Nonetheless, Barbora Krejčíková remains a dangerous contender, renowned for her tactical versatility and composure during crucial moments. She also holds a 1-0 lead in their head-to-head, having won their sole prior meeting in straight sets. Krejčíková’s capacity to endure prolonged rallies could keep the match tightly contested, especially if she manages to disrupt Anisimova’s rhythm. Ultimately, a competitive match is anticipated, but we foresee Anisimova ultimately advancing.
Prediction: Anisimova in 3
Main photo credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images