The Middle East Swing continues with attention turning to the WTA Dubai event – the WTA Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships. The tournament has a stacked draw and there are plenty of exciting matches on the slate on day one. As ever, were here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the slate. But who will book their spot in the second round?

WTA Dubai Day 1 Predictions

Marketa Vondrousova vs. Caroline Garcia

Head-to-Head: Garcia 1:0 Vondrousova

Former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova faces a tricky opener against Caroline Garcia. Vondrousova’s variety and defensive skills contrast with Garcia’s aggressive, first-strike tennis. Both players have been lacking in confidence and consistency in recent months and that factor makes this difficult to call.

Prediction: Garcia in 3

Suzan Lamens vs. Karolína Muchová

Head-to-Head: First Meeting

Qualifier Suzan Lamens faces a tough test against Karolína Muchová, a former Grand Slam finalist known for her all-court game and variety. Muchová, despite recent injury struggles, has the skill and experience to control the match. Unless she’s still rusty, Muchová should advance comfortably in straight sets.

Prediction: Muchova in 2

Elina Svitolina vs. Anna Kalinskaya

Head-to-Head: Svitolina 1:0 Kalinskaya

Elina Svitolina takes on the dangerous Anna Kalinskaya in a compelling first-round clash. Svitolina’s counterpunching and big-match experience contrast with Kalinskaya’s aggressive shot-making and recent strong form. Kalinskaya has scored big wins lately, but Svitolina’s consistency and ability to absorb pace give her the edge. Svitolina is favored to win in a tight contest.

Prediction: Svitolina in 3

Maria Sakkari vs. Emma Raducanu

Head-to-Head: Raducanu 2:0 Sakkari

Maria Sakkari and Emma Raducanu face off in a high-profile first-round clash. Sakkari has been out of sorts of late, while Raducanu, still finding form after injuries, has the shot-making to trouble top opponents. Given their lack of stability and match fitness, Raducanu is marginally favored to win as she has maintained a strong grip in this match up, but Sakkari could push her if she finds rhythm early.

Prediction: Raducanu in 2

Main Photo Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images