T. Valentova comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Form is mixed — DS ranging from -19.2 to 12.7, with at least one match where T. Valentova was clearly outplayed. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.7/10, leaving T. Valentova vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

X. Gao comes into this match in difficult form — 1 wins from the last 5. Matches have been close throughout — average DS of +1.0 with a downward trend. X. Gao is winning on the scoreboard but not pulling away. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.4/10, leaving X. Gao vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.