Abu Dhabi Open 2026: McCartney Kessler vs Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova First Round Preview
The upcoming match at the Abu Dhabi Open 2026 will feature McCartney Kessler facing off against Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. This encounter is part of the WTA 500 tournament, set to take place at the Zayed Sports City International Tennis Centre in the UAE.
Match Details
- Event: Abu Dhabi Open 2026
- Match: McCartney Kessler vs Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova
- Date/Time: [Insert Date and Time]
- Venue: Zayed Sports City International Tennis Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Surface: Outdoor hard
Watch the Match
Television Coverage
- UK: Sky Sports Tennis
- USA: Tennis Channel
Online Streaming
- UK: Sky Go
- USA: Tennis Channel
Player Insights
McCartney Kessler aims to capitalize on her momentum against the 34-year-old Russian. Pavlyuchenkova has struggled recently, losing both of her opening matches in 2026 at Brisbane and the Australian Open. This marks her return to competition after a lengthy absence since August.
Kessler, however, ended the previous season on a high note. She faced Jessica Pegula early in Melbourne but will be looking to secure her second victory this year against Pavlyuchenkova, who is currently ranked 47th in the world.
Match Prediction
While Pavlyuchenkova has the potential to surprise, especially if she can tap into her previous form from the Wimbledon quarter-finals, Kessler is expected to have the edge. With more match readiness, Kessler is favored to emerge victorious in this first clash.
Filmogaz.com predicts that McCartney Kessler will triumph over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova in their opening round at the Abu Dhabi Open 2026.