Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the WTA Beijing match.
Two former US Open champions will face off in the round of 16 at the WTA tournament in Beijing. Their head-to-head record is evenly matched at 2:2, but their last encounter was back in August 2022.
Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka (ranked 73) won the title during her last campaign in Beijing, extending her unbeaten run at this tournament to nine matches. The Japanese player started from the earliest stage of the main draw but has dropped just one set so far. If she wins the upcoming match, Osaka will reach her third quarterfinal since returning to professional tennis.
Coco Gauff
Following a disappointing performance at the US Open, where Coco Gauff was eliminated in the round of 16 by Emma Navarro (3:6, 6:4, 3:6), the ambitious American changed her coach. The world No. 6 has not won a title or reached a final since the Auckland tournament back in January. Gauff has looked unconvincing in Beijing, requiring over three hours combined to defeat Katie Boulter (7:5, 6:2) and Clara Burel (7:5, 6:3).
Naomi Osaka vs Coco Gauff Prediction
Naomi Osaka is determined to return to the top 10, and she gives her all in matches against opponents of similar calibre. Just recall what she did against Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros (6:7, 6:1, 5:7). Since her return to the court, Osaka has played four matches against top-10 opponents and lost only one in straight sets. Gauff will have to work extremely hard to advance—we’re betting on the underdog’s handicap.
