Kudermetova and Paolini Clash in WTA Ningbo Round of 16

Ningbo, China – Veronika Kudermetova of Russia will face off against Italy’s Jasmine Paolini in the Round of 16 at the 2025 WTA Ningbo Open on Thursday. The match is set to take place at 2:10 AM ET on Centre Court.

Paolini, the tournament’s No. 2 seed, comes into this match with a strong season record and a ranking of No. 8 in the world. Her impressive 71% win rate includes a WTA-1000 title in Rome and consistent performances in other tournaments. Recently, she reached the finals in Cincinnati and semifinals in Miami, Stuttgart, and Bad Homburg.

In contrast, Kudermetova holds a current ranking of No. 31 and has experienced a mixed season with a 35-24 record. Despite winning only one of her last four competitions, she managed to reach the quarterfinals in Hobart and ‘s-Hertogenbosch, showcasing her skill primarily in doubles as well.

Historically, the two players have met five times, with Kudermetova leading their head-to-head 3-2. However, Paolini’s recent victory against Kudermetova at the Cincinnati Open two months ago could offer her the momentum needed for this clash. In that match, Paolini won 6-3, 6-7(2), 6-3, indicating a close rivalry.

Kudermetova’s success often hinges on her serve; she has averaged 3.98 aces per match this year, which she will need against Paolini’s aggressive baseline play. The Italian player has a tremendous break point conversion rate of nearly 50%, which speaks to her readiness for this contest.

Kudermetova acknowledged her need to maintain high first-serve percentages to limit Paolini’s chances at the baseline. “I’m locked in,” she told WTA Insider, as she prepares for the challenge. Both are strong competitors with distinct styles, making this matchup a highly anticipated event for tennis fans.

Betting odds reflect Paolini as the favorite, with a 65% implied chance of advancing to the quarterfinals as she looks to build on her successful season. As excitement builds around the WTA Ningbo Open, fans eagerly await the outcome of this fierce encounter.