Also in Audio Format:
In the highly anticipated McCartney Kessler vs Lin Zhu match at the 2025 Nottingham Open Round of 16, Kessler, ranked No. 42, enters as a 76.5% favorite after a thrilling three-set victory over Haddad Maia. With momentum on her side, she’s expected to overpower the lower-ranked Zhu (No. 309) on June 19.
Match Preview: Kessler vs Zhu in Nottingham Showdown
The next tournament, which will take place on June 19, is the Nottingham Open 2025, and the confrontation between the McCartney Kessler and Lin Zhu will take place Round of 16 Kessler was in awe, making a spectacular 7-5, 6-7(3), 7-5 upset against No.14 Beatriz Haddad Maia, and she now brings along confidence and form in this match-up.
“I stuck to my plan and stayed mentally strong,” Kessler told reporters after her win. “Now I’m focused on the next match.”

Zhu, ranked 309, had a solid performance in the previous round, but facing a confident and aggressive Kessler on grass will be her toughest test yet.
Player Comparison & Head-to-Head
Category | McCartney Kessler | Lin Zhu |
---|---|---|
WTA Ranking | No. 42 | No. 309 |
Age | 24 | 30 |
2025 Win-Loss Record | 21-10 | 6-11 |
Grass Court Record | 4-2 | 0-3 |
Career Titles | 1 ITF | 1 WTA |
Though they have never faced each other, Kessler’s explosive forehand and strong baseline game make her a heavy favorite.
Expert Prediction: McCartney Kessler vs Lin Zhu
Sportsbooks currently favor Kessler with a 76.5% win probability, based on:
- Recent top-20 upset
- Strong grass-court game
- Higher fitness and match sharpness
“Kessler is peaking at the right time,” said BBC Sport analyst Annabel Croft. “She’s finding her rhythm, especially on grass.”

Prognosis: Kessler 2:0 (6-4,6-2)
What to Expect From This Match
For Kessler:
- Aggressive baseline play
- Heavy forehands to control rallies
- Targeting Zhu’s weaker backhand
For Zhu:
- Use a slice to disrupt the rhythm
- Force longer rallies
- Stay consistent and minimize unforced errors

Final Thoughts
The McCartney Kessler vs Lin Zhu encounter presents a clear narrative form and ranking heavily favors Kessler, who seems poised to reach her first WTA quarterfinal. If she maintains her focus and attacking play, it could be another straight-set victory.
For Zhu, it’s a chance to prove doubters wrong and gain confidence for the remainder of the season. But on current form, the odds are stacked.
Your Turn:
Guess who you would like to see win this Round of 16?
Can Zhu pull off the upset, or will Kessler’s hot streak continue?
Comment below, share your thoughts, and predict the scoreline.
Wta Nottingham Great Britain Women Singles
— Debbie Mills (@Debtipster) June 18, 2025
KESSLER, MCCARTNEY vs ZHU, LIN
19/06 – 12:00
KESSLER, MCCARTNEY wins
LINETTE, MAGDA vs XU, MINGGE
19/06 – 12:30
LINETTE, MAGDA wins pic.twitter.com/RFVlXHJGwU
Also Read
Diana Shnaider vs Marketa Vondrousova: Thrilling Berlin Clash
Novak Djokovic vs Jakub Mensik in Emotional Miami Open Final
Berlin Open 2025 Jabeur Lucky: Ons’ Grit Shines

Fresh Khaber was founded by Abdul Basit, a passionate sports enthusiast with a deep interest in covering the latest developments in the sports world. Abdul is committed to delivering insightful, well-researched content that is accessible to fans, athletes, and readers globally. With a focus on accuracy and clarity, he leads Fresh Khaber in providing reliable news and updates to a dedicated audience.