WTA Cincinnati Day 5 Predictions Including Aryna Sabalenka vs Emma Raducanu

Day 5 at the Cincinnati Open is serving up a heavyweight clash that’s got tennis fans buzzing—world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is set to face off against Emma Raducanu, the resurgent British star. It’s a rematch of their closely contested Roland Garros and Wimbledon matches, and it promises fireworks in Ohio!

Sabalenka, the defending Cincinnati champion, came out firing in Round 2 with a polished 7-5, 6-1 victory over Markéta Vondroušová. She saved a whopping 12 break points while converting all three chances of her own—a stellar display of precision under pressure that shows she’s hitting her stride on North American hard courts.

On the other side of the net, Emma Raducanu has been building momentum—and fast. Under her new coach Francisco Roig, she’s looked confident and consistent, powering past Olga Danilovic 6-3, 6-2 in Round 2 to book this dream matchup. Raducanu herself described this next match as a “fact-finding” one, keen to test her mettle against the very best—and understand her current level compared to them.

Head-to-head history gives Sabalenka the edge, with two prior wins—in Indian Wells (6-3, 7-5) and Wimbledon (7-6, 6-4)—but both were closely fought, hinting that Raducanu has plenty of fight left in her. And indeed, at Wimbledon, Raducanu stretched the match to the brink, showing that she’s more than capable of testing Sabalenka physically and mentally.

Expert previews—including one from Last Word on Sports—lean towards Sabalenka prevailing, “probably in two,” thanks to her raw power and consistency. Another detailed prediction breaks it down further: Sabalenka is the clear favorite thanks to her form, but Raducanu’s improving game and newfound confidence mean she may still push the world No. 1 hard—expect a tight contest that could exceed 20.5 games.

To sum it up: Sabalenka brings the firepower, experience, and hunger as reigning champ. Raducanu brings heart, a fresh perspective with her new coach, and the will to push the No. 1 to her limits. Whether you’re team Sabalenka or rooting for Raducanu’s resurgence, buckle up—it’s going to be a battle worth watching!