Lilli Tagger vs Venus Williams Preview & Prediction | 2026 Guangzhou Open | First Round

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Venus Williams takes on Lilli Tagger at the Guangzhou Open. 

Ranking points: WTA 250

Start date/time: 27 October 2026 at 6:30 am

Venue: Nansha International Tennis Center, Guangzhou, China

Surface: Outdoor hard

How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel

How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel

Lilli Tagger vs Venus Williams prediction

Lilli Tagger has enjoyed a breakthrough 2026, highlighted by winning the Prague Open in July, where she defeated Daria Snigur in the final. The 18-year-old also won the ITF W100 title in Fujairah, beating Harriet Dart in straight sets. Her recent form has been particularly encouraging, highlighted by her victory in Osaka over Liudmila Samsonova in the opening round. She subsequently reached the quarter-finals before suffering a narrow defeat to Ann Li. That performance should give her confidence heading into Guangzhou. 

Venus Williams returns to singles competition for the first time since the US Open, where she lost in straight sets to Sofia Kenin in the opening round. The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has endured a difficult 2026, losing all 12 of her singles matches, including ten on hard courts. Her last singles victory came against Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open in July 2025.

Tagger’s consistency, recent form and superior fitness make her a strong favourite. 

Lilli Tagger vs Venus Williams tip: Under 18.5 games