A busy opening day of WTA Doha action is scheduled. 2021 US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez and young star Diana Shnaider are among those whose matches are predicted in this article. We here at LWOT cover other contests, including Karolina Muchova vs Jaqueline Cristian, separately. But who will advance?

WTA Doha Day 1 Predictions
Laura Siegemund vs Varvara Gracheva

Head-to-head: First meeting

Siegemund’s producing some of her best singles performances at age 37, including a Wimbledon quarterfinal run, has been outstanding. The German might fancy her chances against a notoriously inconsistent opponent. However, Gracheva is narrowly favored to win. The Frenchwoman’s game suits dealing with variety quite well, which is crucial against Siegemund.

Prediction: Siegemund in 3

Diana Shnaider vs Alycia Parks

Head-to-head: Shnaider 3-1 Parks

The head-to-head strongly favors Shnaider. However, Parks’s sole victory came at last year’s tournament in Doha, which adds an interesting dynamic to this matchup. Although Parks serves big, the relatively slow conditions at the event were favorable to the American, as they kept her movement from being routinely exposed. However, even in favorable conditions, Parks starts as a slight underdog against her higher-ranked opponent. Shnaider is backed to win, but not with total certainty.

Prediction: Shnaider in 3

Daria Kasatkina vs Moyuka Uchijima

Head-to-head: First meeting

In 2024, Kasatkina would have almost certainly handled this challenge with relative ease. Since last year, she has struggled much more. Being defeated by Simona Waltert at the Abu Dhabi Open was the latest low. Uchijima’s level on hard courts fluctuates, and she usually plays better on clay. The conditions should favor Kasatkina more, making her the more likely winner despite her poor form.

Prediction: Kasatkina in 2

Leylah Fernandez vs Ann Li

Head-to-head: Li 1-0 Fernandez

Fernandez registered her first singles victory of 2026 in Abu Dhabi before being comfortably beaten by McCartney Kessler. The Canadian’s 1-4 win-loss record and mostly poor level of play have been concerning. If she does not significantly improve, Fernandez could be in trouble here. Slow hard courts like the ones in Doha suit Li’s game by allowing the 25-year-old to wind up her powerful forehand. I think Fernandez’s tough period will continue.

Prediction: Li in 3

Main Photo Credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports