A busy opening day of WTA Doha action is planned. 2021 US Open runner-up Leila Fernandez and young star Diana Schneider are also among the players whose matches are predicted in this article. Here at LWOT, we’ve covered other contests separately, including Karolina Muchova vs. Jacqueline Cristian. But who will step forward?

WTA Doha Day 1 predictions

Laura Siegemund vs Varvara Gracheva

Head-to-head: First meeting

Siegmund was outstanding, producing some of his best singles performances at the age of 37, including reaching the Wimbledon quarter-finals. The German may take his chances against a notoriously inconsistent opponent. However, Gracheva is favored to win by a narrow margin. The French woman’s game is very good at dealing with diversity, which is very important against Siegmund.

Prediction: Siegmund for 3 years

Diana Schneider vs Alicia Parks

Matchup: Schneider 3-1 Parks

In a direct confrontation, Schneider has the advantage. But Parks’ only win came at last year’s tournament in Doha, adding an interesting dynamic to this matchup. Although Parks’ serve is big, the tournament’s relatively slow conditions were an advantage for the American, as they prevented Parks’ movements from being exposed on a daily basis. However, even under favorable conditions, Parks will start at a slight disadvantage against a higher-ranked opponent. Schneider is confident of victory, but it’s not completely certain.

Prediction: 3 Schneider

Daria Kasatkina vs Moyuka Uchijima

Head-to-head: First meeting

In 2024, Kasatkina would almost certainly have handled this task with relative ease. Since last year, she has struggled even more. Her loss to Simona Woltert at the Abu Dhabi Open was a recent low. Uchijima’s level on hard courts fluctuates, and he usually plays better on clay. Conditions should favor Kasatkina, giving her a good chance of winning despite her poor form.

Prediction: Kasatkina in second place

Leila Fernandez vs Ang Lee

Matchup: Lee 1-0 Fernandes

Fernandes recorded his first singles win of 2026 in Abu Dhabi, where he easily defeated McCartney Kessler. The Canadian’s 1-4 record and low level of play are cause for concern. Fernandez could pose a problem here if she doesn’t improve significantly. Slow hard courts like Doha suit Lee’s game, allowing the 25-year-old to wind up powerful forehands. I think it’s going to be a tough time for Fernandes.

Prediction: 3 min li

Main photo credit: Geoff Burke – USA TODAY Sports