Linda Noskova is set to kick off her 2026 Qatar Open journey as she faces Maya Joint in the first round. The winner of this clash will go on to meet qualifier Varvara Gracheva in the second round. Noskova, currently ranked No. 12, is at a career-high, while Joint follows closely behind at a personal-best ranking of No. 29.
In the previous season, Noskova showcased remarkable consistency, reaching finals in major tournaments held in Prague, Beijing, and Tokyo, among others, logging a total of 72 matches. Her serve is particularly formidable, boasting 373 aces with an impressive 65.6% first-serve win rate. However, her return game has been less reliable, reflected in a break-point conversion rate of 34.6%.
Conversely, Joint brings a different style to the court. While her serve may not be as powerful, she has excelled in her return game, achieving a remarkable 46.9% return points won and a break-point conversion rate of 61%. Last season, she captured titles in Rabat and Eastbourne, although her recent performances have seen a decline, resulting in first-round exits in both Melbourne and Abu Dhabi. Nonetheless, she recently claimed a title in doubles at the Adelaide tournament.
For bettors looking at this match, the recommended wager is on Noskova with a -3.5 games handicap at odds of -132 against Joint. The odds reflect Noskova’s solid performance and consistent hold on serve, indicating a high probability of victory. The moneyline from FanDuel places Noskova at -255, suggesting a win probability of approximately 72%.
Recent form highlights Noskova’s journey through tournaments, including reaching the third round at the Australian Open and progressing to the final in Tokyo, showcasing her competitive edge. Meanwhile, Joint’s trajectory has faced setbacks following her significant doubles success in Abu Dhabi.
Streaming options for the match will be available through various platforms, including WTA TV, along with numerous regional broadcasters. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest set to take place on February 9 at the Khalifa International Tennis Complex in Doha, Qatar. Given both athletes’ rankings and skill sets, this matchup promises to deliver exciting tennis action.