McCartney Kessler vs Leylah Fernandez Preview & Prediction | 2026 Abu Dhabi Open | Round of 16

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McCartney Kessler meets Leylah Fernandez in Abu Dhabi.

Ranking points: WTA 500

Start date/time:

Venue: Zayed Sports City International Tennis Centre, Abu Dhabi, UAE

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

Tickets: Visit this link for the latest McCartney Kessler vs Leylah Fernandez ticket information

McCartney Kessler vs Leylah Fernandez prediction

Leylah Fernandez ended a run of four straight defeats with a dominant opener in Abu Dhabi.

The Canadian was in merciless mode as she thumped lucky loser Chloe Paquet 6-0 6-3.

The world number 25 will now face a much sterner test in the shape of McCartney Kessler.

The American, who sits just seven places behind the sixth seed in the rankings, was equally as impressive in a 6-3 6-3 victory over Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova. 

This will be their first meeting with Kessler enjoying a better spell of form in recent weeks, chalking up a 3-3 record in 2026 so far. 

There’s scope to consider it going three or to look at the over 22.5 games market, but there’s also a feeling Kessler may dictate more and provide value for backing an upset. 

McCartney Kessler vs Leylah Fernandez tip: McCartney Kessler to win