I tell ya, this Sofia Kenin versus Diana Shnaider matchup is like a riveting drama without the popcorn. Just looking at their recent performances, Shnaider has been more consistent, with alternating victories and defeats. Now that's a metronome I can get behind. Kenin hasn't shown herself to be as reliable. I mean, a clunker against Burel and a narrow escape against Raducanu? That says it all, doesn't it?
But then again, tournament seeding throws a curveball. Shnaider sitting pretty at 12, while Kenin, oh poor Kenin, doesn't even get a number. Now isn’t that something?
For those who like to indulge in Shakespearean dramas, this will be fun to watch. Yet, as far as my prediction goes, Shnaider's recent consistency, plus that desirable seed position, outweighs Kenin's turbulent track record.
So, without a twinge of doubt or desire for controversy, my crystal ball is favoring Diana Shnaider - but just by a whisker. So, listen closely:
Albert's Prediction: Shnaider in 3 sets.