Key Highlights
- The upcoming WTA Ningbo final features a matchup between top players Ekaterina Alexandrova and Elena Rybakina.
- Rybakina is favored by the bookmakers, but Alexandrova’s recent performance suggests value in her pick.
- Both players have had successful seasons with notable performances on hard court surfaces.
- The match will be their sixth overall meeting, with Alexandrova leading 4-1 in head-to-head encounters.
Tennis Stars Face Off at WTA Ningbo Final
In a battle of top-tier talent, Ekaterina Alexandrova and Elena Rybakina will face off in the WTA Ningbo final on October 18th, 2025. This event marks their sixth overall meeting, with Alexandrova holding a commanding edge at 4-1.
Rybakina is currently favored by the bookmakers, entering the match as a 1.75 to 1 underdog against Alexandrova’s 2.81 odds on Betfair. The books project that Rybakina has emerged as the superior player in recent times, despite Alexandrova’s strong historical record.
Head-to-Head Analysis: A Skewed Matchup
Their most recent meeting came at WTA Adelaide in 2024, where Alexandrova secured her fourth win against Rybakina. Their lone victory came for Rybakina at WTA Rome back in 2020. They also met in the final of the WTA Shenzhen tournament in 2020, which Alexandrova won decisively.
Alexandrova has demonstrated resilience and consistency, having gone 7-3 in her last ten matches. Rybakina follows closely with a similar record, maintaining a competitive edge despite facing formidable opponents such as Paula Peeters, Amanda Anisimova, and Elise Mertens throughout the season.
Recent Performances: Consistency vs Depth
Alexandrova’s performance in Ningbo has been particularly noteworthy. She shut down powerful forehands like Diana Shnaider and McCartney Kessler with remarkable consistency. Alexandrova’s deep participation of eight tournaments this year suggests a player who is not only skilled but also persistent.
On the other hand, Rybakina has played in fewer tournaments (five) but managed to secure victories consistently.
Her 34-13 record on hard court surfaces underscores her adaptability and effectiveness on this surface. However, Alexandrova’s broader participation could offer a strategic advantage.
Betting Strategies: Value in Alexandrova
The books have set the odds at about 2.68 to 1.46 favoring Rybakina. While there is value in taking Rybakina, especially through correct score or total games bets, a more conservative approach might yield better returns.
For those inclined to take Alexandrova, her straight-up win odds at 2.81 on Betfair present a clear opportunity. Alexandrova’s history against Rybakina and her consistent performance in Ningbo make this a smart bet despite the lower odds.
In conclusion, while both players have had outstanding seasons, the recent form of Ekaterina Alexandrova suggests that taking her straight up could be a prudent choice for those looking to capitalize on value. The WTA Ningbo final promises an exciting contest between two top-tier players, and bettors should consider these factors carefully.