Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the US Open match.
Emma Navarro
When Navarro defeated world No. 3 Coco Gauff, it might have been surprising, but after her victory over Paula Badosa, there should be no doubts about her capabilities. The American started strong (3:0), making it impossible for her opponent to catch up in the first set. In the second set, the Spaniard seemed to find her rhythm, broke serve twice, and took a 5:1 lead. However, Navarro then clawed back and claimed the next six games.
Aryna Sabalenka
The Belarusian player has been steamrolling her opponents in this tournament. Only in the third round did Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova manage to take a set off her (6:2). In all other matches, Sabalenka did not allow her opponents to get within two games of her. Even quarter-final opponent Qinwen Zheng, who is ranked No. 7 and an Olympic gold medalist, could not put up a significant fight. Thanks to a 71% first serve percentage, the Belarusian gave her no chances, while Zheng herself served poorly (44%). In her quarter-final, Navarro had a serving percentage similar to Sabalenka.
Emma Navarro - Aryna Sabalenka Prediction
The head-to-head record between the two players stands at 1:1. Sabalenka won 6:2, 6:3 in the Round of 16 at Roland Garros 2024. However, Navarro triumphed on hard court at the 2024 Indian Wells tournament, winning 6:3, 3:6, 6:2. Both are currently in excellent form, with the American seemingly in the best condition of her career. Predicting a winner in this match is challenging, despite Sabalenka's status. Navarro should have enough strength, at least for the first set, which she could either win or lose in a close battle.
