Victoria Azarenka vs Anhelina Kalinina prediction and betting tips on February 17, 2025
Game Prediction
On February 17, Victoria Azarenka and Anhelina Kalinina will clash in the early rounds of the Dubai Tennis Championships, a prestigious WTA event. Can Azarenka turn her season around, or will Kalinina take advantage of her opponent’s struggles? Here’s my detailed match analysis and betting prediction.
Victoria Azarenka
The 35-year-old Belarusian veteran is approaching the twilight of her career, but she remains a dangerous opponent. A former world No. 1, Azarenka boasts an impressive résumé, including two Grand Slam titles and an Olympic gold medal in mixed doubles.
Currently ranked 30th in the world, Azarenka has had a poor start to the 2024 season, winning just one of her four matches.
Her most recent tournament in Doha was a disaster, as she was eliminated in the first round by Amanda Anisimova, who eventually won the title.
Anhelina Kalinina
The 28-year-old Ukrainian is ranked 50th in the world and has had a mixed start to the season.
Kalinina reached a semifinal in Brisbane, showing promising form. However, her performances have been inconsistent, including a shocking loss to Alexandra Sasnovich in Cluj, in a match she should have won.
She also competed in Doha, where she was easily beaten by Rebecca Šramková (2-6, 3-6) in the first round.
Match facts
- Azarenka has lost 3 of 4 matches in 2024.
- Kalinina has played 11 matches this season, winning 6.
- Betting odds: Azarenka 1.54 | Kalinina 2.57.
Head-to-head (H2H)
The two players have met once before, in Brisbane 2023, where Azarenka won a tight match (7-6, 7-6).
Prediction
Despite being the favorite on paper, Azarenka’s poor form this season is concerning. Kalinina has played more matches, and her match fitness should be better.
This could be a closely contested match, as their previous encounter featured two tiebreaks. Kalinina has a real chance to win, or at least keep it competitive. Best bet: Kalinina +3.5 games handicap.