Bencic Set to Face Ito at WTA Dubai Showdown

Dubai, United Arab Emirates — Belinda Bencic of Switzerland, currently ranked No. 65 in the world, is set to clash with Japan’s Aoi Ito, ranked No. 120, in the Round of 64 at the WTA Dubai Championships on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

This matchup promises to be an intriguing preliminary round encounter as Bencic enters the tournament as a strong favorite. The betting odds reflect her status, with Bencic listed at -1099 compared to Ito’s +600, suggesting the Swiss player holds a significant advantage. The implied probability of victory for Bencic is approximately 91.7%, while Ito’s chances stand at around 14.3%.

The WTA Dubai Championships, known for attracting a strong field of competitors, is set to unfold at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium. Both players will be competing on hard courts, which favor Bencic’s strong baseline game. Having previously won the title in Dubai in 2019, Bencic is eager to reclaim glory after recent inconsistent performances on tour.

Bencic’s match record this year currently stands at an impressive 11 wins against 2 losses, and she holds a set record of 20-7. In contrast, Ito’s record is more mixed, with 4 wins and 4 losses. Notably, Bencic has averaged 1.4 aces per match this season and has succeeded in 61 break points, further indicating her prowess on the court.

This match is crucial for both players as it sets the tone for their campaigns in one of the premier WTA events of the season. A win for Bencic would solidify her pathway deeper into the tournament, while an upset by Ito could signal her arrival on the larger tennis stage.

As the first day of competition features 12 singles matches and six doubles matches, tennis enthusiasts can expect a thrilling day of action as the tournament kicks off.