Tenth seed Linda Noskova is gearing up for a first-round showdown against Ann Li at the 2026 Dubai Tennis Championships. Despite being ranked No. 12 in the world and widely regarded as the favorite, Noskova’s recent form raises questions about her ability to deliver a dominant performance. So far this season, she has faced early exits in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Doha, making her current match-up less predictable than typically expected for a top-15 player.
In her 2025 season, Noskova competed in 72 matches and reached finals in Prague, Beijing, and Tokyo but unfortunately did not secure any titles. Her statistics show a functional serve with a 65.6% success rate on first-serve points, while she boasts solid return stats with 39.7% of return points won. However, her break-point conversion rate of 34.6% indicates a struggle to capitalize on critical opportunities.
On the other hand, Ann Li, currently ranked No. 41, has encountered similar challenges, exiting early in Brisbane, Hobart, Melbourne, and Doha. However, she had a more successful 2025 season, seizing a title in Guangzhou and reaching the finals in both Singapore and Cleveland. Her slightly better return stats at 40.5% present her as a formidable opponent, though her serving may not possess the same threat as Noskova’s.
As for predictions, many analysts consider the total games in the match as the best betting angle, favoring an outcome exceeding 20.5 games (-122 at FanDuel). Given both players’ recent struggles, it’s anticipated that the match may be tighter than the odds suggest.
Both players have had rocky starts to their year, but their recent forms showcase resilience. Noskova’s capability to withstand pressure during rallies may give her an edge, while Li’s superior return stats could provide significant resistance. The match is set to take place on February 15, starting at 11:00 AM GST at the Aviation Club Tennis Centre in Dubai.
Viewers can catch the action on various TV networks, including Tennis Channel and Sky Sports, while live streaming options will be available through platforms such as Tennis TV and ESPN+. With both players aiming for a turnaround, this encounter promises to be an intriguing contest.