Svitolina vs. Ruzic: Where to watch the WTA 1000 quarterfinals

On February 19, Elina Svitolina (WTA No. 9) and Antonia Ruzic (WTA No. 63) will face off in the quarterfinals of the WTA 1000 tournament in Dubai . The match doesn’t start until 6:30 PM Kyiv time.

Elina Svitolina

The Ukrainian started the season confidently: 12 wins in 14 matches, a title in Auckland, a semi-final at the Australian Open, and a return to the top 10 of the world rankings.

In Dubai, Svitolina started in the second round. Against Paula Badosa, she won the first set 6-4, coming back from 1-4 down, after which the Spaniard retired. In the next round, Elina defeated Belinda Bencic 4-6, 6-1, 6-3.

In both matches, the Ukrainian demonstrated character and the ability to turn the tide of a game, which testifies to her excellent form and psychological fortitude.

Antonia Ruzic

The Croatian is gradually improving, although she’s had an inconsistent season – 5 wins and 6 losses. Her best result of the year was reaching the semifinals in Hobart.

Ruzic entered the Dubai tournament on a four-match losing streak. She lost to Rebecca Šramková in qualifying but qualified for the main draw as a “lucky loser.” She then defeated Emma Raducana (6:1, 5:7, 6:2) and the neutral Zakharova (6:1, 6:7, 6:1). In the preliminary round, she faced Elena Rybakina (5:7, 6:4, 1:0), after which her opponent withdrew from the match.

Forecast

Svitolina enters the match as the clear favorite, with top-level experience and consistent form on her side. Ruzic has already demonstrated her character and ability to challenge strong opponents. Despite the Ukrainian’s weighting advantage, don’t expect a walk in the park.

This will be the first face-to-face meeting between the tennis players.

Earlier, Elina Svitolina reached the 1/8 finals of the WTA 1000 in Dubai.