Oh, this is going to be a movie - the modifier "Battle of Titans" springs to mind - but, in the business, we say be careful what you wish for, less you peak at the trailer only to snore at the actual show. Yes, Jessica Pegula, the queen bee herself, ranks second in the tournament while Veronika Kudermetova, the scrappy underdog, perches at 32nd.
Now, let's stroll down memory lane a moment. Ah, yes, there we find Miss Kudermetova leading the dance card against Pegula, not once but twice, showing us a spectacle of endurance and nerve. Despite what your eyes may tell you, in the world of racket crafts, the big stage may not necessarily add extra beats to your shots.
However, don't be deceived, this isn't nostalgia hour. We've all seen Pegula in action recently, sending tennis balls quicker than a FedEx delivery to their destination - love or just breadcrumbs for her opponents. She's carved out victories with the cold certainty of a neurosurgeon, and it was only Sabalenka who avoided the scrub by turning the tide. Meanwhile, Kudermetova has been rather busy, holding her own onstage, but succumbing to Haddad Maia B. in a rather humbling fashion.
Okay, forecast time. Getting straight to the point, let's remember numbers aren't just numbers, and history is just that. Pegula, my dear audience, is the favored one, but don't expect Kudermetova to roll over... this is China Open, after all. We could see a tango lasting an extra round. So, get your popcorn ready because this match will keep you glued till the very end.
Albert's Prediction: Pegula in 3 sets.