M. Barthel has been inconsistent recently, going 3–2 over the last five matches. Point margins have been modest — DS averaging +5.0. Wins have been functional rather than dominant. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.7/10, leaving M. Barthel vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

K. Rakhimova comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -13.1 to 25.8, with at least one match where K. Rakhimova was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.4/10, leaving K. Rakhimova vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure. Good performance in key moments — break point efficiency of +14 over the last five.