WTA Abu Dhabi Day 1: Leylah Fernandez Faces Ajla Tomljanovic Predictions

Casey Halston

Published: February 1, 2026 8:13 AM ET

Elena Rybakina, the WTA Finals champion, captured her second Grand Slam title by defeating Aryna Sabalenka at the Australian Open. With this momentous victory, the WTA Tour continues without interruption. The Middle Eastern leg of the tour commences in Abu Dhabi, featuring thrilling matches lined up for Day 1.

WTA Abu Dhabi Day 1: Leylah Fernandez Faces Ajla Tomljanovic

As the WTA players gear up for their matches, anticipation is building around the clash between Leylah Fernandez and Ajla Tomljanovic. Here’s a look at the predictions for this and other matches happening on the opening day.

Match Predictions

Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova vs. McCartney Kessler

Head-to-head: First meeting
McCartney Kessler struggled in her last singles match against Jessica Pegula. However, her performance against opponents like Pavlyuchenkova could bring a different outcome. Kessler is expected to exploit Pavlyuchenkova’s average movement.
Prediction: Kessler in 2 sets.
Hailey Baptiste vs. Teodora Kostovic

Head-to-head: First meeting
Teodora Kostovic, an 18-year-old talent, faces a solid competitor in Hailey Baptiste. Baptiste, fresh off a decent showing at the Australian Open, is known for her consistent play. Kostovic may find it challenging to break through Baptiste’s defenses.
Prediction: Baptiste in 2 sets.
Sofia Kenin vs. Liudmila Samsonova

Head-to-head: Kenin leads 2-1

Both players faced early exits at the Australian Open. Kenin’s style can effectively disrupt Samsonova’s aggressive play, although her inconsistency makes this match unpredictable.
Prediction: Kenin in 3 sets.
Leylah Fernandez vs. Ajla Tomljanovic

Head-to-head: Tomljanovic leads 1-0
Leylah Fernandez aims to bounce back after a slow start to her season. Both players favor early ball strikes, but Fernandez frequently showcases a more aggressive strategy. The effectiveness of her left-handed forehand against Tomljanovic’s backhand will likely shape the outcome of their match.

Prediction: Fernandez in 3 sets.

As fans tune in, the stakes are high for all competitors at WTA Abu Dhabi. Each match promises excitement and potential surprises, contributing to a thrilling start to the tournament.