H. Sakatsume comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Point statistics tell a concerning story — average DS of -4.4, meaning H. Sakatsume has been on the wrong side of most exchanges over five matches. The serve has been a concern — averaging only 5.6/10, leaving H. Sakatsume vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.

A. Kulikova comes into this match in difficult form — 2 wins from the last 5. Dominance has been solid and consistent, averaging DS +12.0 (range: -18.5 to 70.4). The serve has been a concern — averaging only 6.2/10, leaving A. Kulikova vulnerable on second serve and facing frequent return pressure.