Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider Prediction – WTA Ningbo Tennis Picks

Defending champion Elena Rybakina will face her toughest test so far at the Ningbo Open when she plays in-form Diana Shnaider in the semifinals. Here’s our Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider prediction. This preview will include an Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider pick.

Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider Preview

Elena Rybakina beat Katarzyna Kawa in three sets to return to the semifinals in Ningbo. The World No. 1 played some sensational tennis to wrap up the first set 6-1 in 23 minutes. But her level dipped in a disappointing second set in which she dropped her serve three times. Rybakina managed to regain her footing at the start of the third set, breaking Kawa twice to ease to victory. Rybakina improves to 51-14 for the season and is seeking to reach her first final since taking over as the new women’s No. 1.

Diana Shnaider reached her third career final in Ningbo with a battling display against Iva Jovic. In a very entertaining match which featured some thrilling rallies, Shnaider came out on top 6-3, 4-6, 6-1 in two hours and 12 minutes. Shnaider hit 4 aces and landed 73% of first serves in play. She won 66% of first serve points (37/56) and saved four of six break points in the match. Shnaider reached the Ningbo final on her debut in 2023.

Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider Head-To-Head

Rybakina and Shnaider have met twice at WTA level, with both meetings happening this season. Rybakina won in straight sets in Stuttgart and more recently at the Cincinnati Open.

Elena Rybakina vs Diana Shnaider Prediction

Considering the amount of time spent in winning three grueling matches in Ningbo, Shnaider is unlikely to be the fresher of the two players here. Rybakina looked in supreme form, beating Kawa (bar the second set), and the Kazakh should be expected to dominate on serve. Rybakina is +120 to close this one in straight sets, which is obviously massive value.

Nur Said's Pick: Rybakina in straight sets