Sonay Kartal is on a commendable run at the WTA Abu Dhabi tournament, where she has navigated through qualifying rounds and secured a main draw victory. The British player, who is currently ranked 66th in the world, is now set to face the tournament’s top seed and two-time champion, Belinda Bencic, in what promises to be an exciting match.
This contest marks the first meeting between Kartal and Bencic on the professional circuit. Having recently defeated Cristina Bucsa in straight sets, Kartal approaches the match with confidence, though she knows she will need to elevate her game against the formidable Bencic.
The statistics suggest a close battle ahead, with Kartal showing competitive numbers, particularly in her serve return and break point conversion percentages. While both players exhibit similar skills, Bencic’s experience on the court could give her the edge. Bencic, ranked 9th in the world, is currently in excellent form following her return to tennis after the birth of her first child in October 2024. However, she faced an unexpected exit in the second round of the Australian Open earlier this year.
As the two athletes prepare to clash on the hard courts of Abu Dhabi, Kartal will aim to disrupt Bencic’s tactical prowess and exploit any weaknesses. The match is scheduled to take place on Centre Court, starting not before 5 PM local time (1 PM GMT), and will be available for viewing via subscription on Sky and Now TV.
Many tennis fans are hopeful for an upset, as Kartal seeks to mark her name on the tournament while Bencic aims to maintain her unbeaten streak in Abu Dhabi. Predictions suggest a tight contest, likely resulting in Bencic taking the match in three sets, showcasing both players’ determination and skill in this thrilling matchup.