Samsonova vs. Kenin: Abu Dhabi Open 2026 First Round Preview & Prediction
Liudmila Samsonova is poised to compete against Sofia Kenin in the opening round of the 2026 Abu Dhabi Open. This exciting matchup will occur at the Zayed Sports City International Tennis Centre in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on outdoor hard courts. The tournament is part of the WTA 500 category, offering significant ranking points.
Match Preview: Samsonova vs. Kenin
This first-round clash promises a thrilling encounter, as both players seek to gain momentum in their seasons. Samsonova, currently ranked 18th in the world, is coming off three straight losses. Her most recent standout performance was reaching the quarter-finals at Brisbane.
Sofia Kenin, ranked 30th, is also on a quest for form. After a promising start to the year, her performance declined, culminating in a disappointing defeat to Peyton Stearns, ending with scores of 3-6, 2-6.
Head-to-Head History
In their head-to-head series, Samsonova holds a 2-1 advantage over Kenin. The last encounter between the two took place in October 2023 during the Wuhan tournament, where Samsonova emerged victorious with a score of 3-6, 6-3, 6-1.
Expectations and Predictions
Given Samsonova’s resilience shown in her recent matches, she is favored to take the win in this matchup. Her recent efforts, despite setbacks, suggest she is prepared for this challenge. Analysts and fans alike expect a tightly contested match, with an inclination toward Samsonova’s success based on past performances.
Viewing Information
- UK: Sky Sports Tennis
- USA: Tennis Channel
For online streaming, UK viewers can watch the matches via Sky Go, while US fans can tune in through the Tennis Channel.
Ticket Information
Fans interested in attending can purchase tickets for the match and tournament through official links available on Filmogaz.com. Don’t miss the chance to witness this exciting competition live!