Prediction of Veronika Kudermetova vs Shuai Zhang at Ningbo Open - Ningbo 10-14-25

• Recent performance on second serve shows Veronika Kudermetova slightly ahead, winning 40.63% of points compared to Shuai Zhang's 39.59%.
• In return games, Kudermetova also edges out Zhang slightly: winning 47.62% on opponents' second serves, while Zhang manages 47.44%.
• First serve return effectiveness is slightly better for Zhang at 28.77%, compared to Kudermetova's 27.96%.
• Under pressure, Kudermetova has saved 49.83% of breakpoints, surpassing Zhang who saved 47.74%.
• Overall, in the past year, Shuai Zhang has a higher win rate at 65.91% compared to Kudermetova's 56.67%, suggesting better form in matches.
• Kudermetova excels on grass with 60% wins, while Zhang performs best on hard courts with a 60% win rate.
• While Kudermetova has mainly competed in Masters series events with a 64.29% win rate, Zhang has thrived in lower-tier tournaments, holding an 84.62% win rate.
• Their head-to-head record stands evenly with each player winning one match; however, Kudermetova won their last encounter.
• On average, opponents faced by Kudermetova hold a higher rank (108.92) compared to Zhang’s (222.57).
• Zhang excels in deciding sets, winning 86% of matches that reach this stage, compared to Kudermetova's 39%.
• Past head-to-head matches have averaged 1 hour and 15 minutes in duration.

Editorial Prediction (October 14, 2025, UTC):

The upcoming match between Veronika Kudermetova and Shuai Zhang shows promise of a competitive encounter, with both players displaying strengths and weaknesses in different areas.

Kudermetova holds a minor edge in second serve performance and ability to save breakpoints, which are crucial factors in maintaining pressure during matches. Although both players have a one-all record in their head-to-head history, Kudermetova recently secured a convincing victory over Zhang.

However, Zhang’s ability to win deciding sets presents a formidable challenge. She also has a higher match win percentage over the past year, underscoring her competitive form.

Ultimately, the balance lies in the diversity of competition they have faced, with Kudermetova's opponents being ranked higher on average. Given these insights, Kudermetova seems to have a slight advantage heading into the match, making her the likely winner.