Auckland 2025: Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu preview, head-to-head, prediction and pick | ASB Classic
Match Details
Fixture: Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu
Tournament: ASB Classic 2025
Round: First round (Round of 32)
Venue: ASB Tennis Centre, Auckland, Newzealand
Category: WTA 250
Surface: Outdoor Hardcourt
Prize money: $267,082
Live telecast: USA - Tennis Channel | UK - Sky Sports
Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu preview
Sofia Kenin will face off against Wang Xiyu in the opening round of the ASB Classic in Auckland.
Kenin had an underwhelming season in 2024, posting a 16-26 win-loss record. The American registered just a single win in her initial ten appearances. A third-round finish at the French Open was followed by another dry spell which included four consecutive first-round exits.
Kenin, however, finished the season on a strong note. She had a decent campaign during the Asian swing, where she reached the Pan Pacific Open final and Hong Kong Open quarterfinals.
Wang, last year's semifinalist at the ASB Classic, had a comparatively better season in 2024. Following her splendid run in Auckland, Wang struggled to stitch wins in the middle-east Asian tournaments. However, she bounced back at the ATX Open, where she reached the final.
Wang's clay-court and grass-court swings were underwhelming, with the WTA 125K Makarska semifinal finish being the only notable result. Across Grand Slams, Wang's best finish came at the French Open, where she reached the second round.
Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu head-to-head
This will be their first meeting on the tour and hence their head-to-head stands at 0-0.
Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu odds
(Odds will be updated once available)
Sofia Kenin vs Wang Xiyu prediction
After a disappointing season in 2024, Kenin will be hopeful of turning her fortunes around with a strong start in Auckland. Her commendable runs in Japan and Hong Kong will give her much-needed confidence.
Kenin struggled on hard courts during the early phases of 2024. The former Australian Open champion, however, improved as the season progressed. Her last appearance in Auckland saw her suffer a second-round exit in 2023.
Wang's preferred surface is also hard. The leftie has already shown her prowess on the outdoor hardcourts of the ASB Tennis Centre, having reached the semifinals in 2024. However, Wang's form towards the latter part of the season has been concerning.
Although Kenin has been in decent touch lately, Wang's overall advantage on hardcourts and superior fitness might prove the difference in this clash.
Pick: Wang to win in three sets.