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The women’s draw at the BNP Paribas Open has become incredibly interesting. With shock results and top-level tennis, it has already been a great event, and I believe that Navarro vs Sabalenka will only add to that. Of course, I’ve given my tips for this match below, and you can check my other tennis predictions today whenever you please.
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On paper, this might seem like a walk in the park for the number two seed. However, Sabalenka very nearly lost to the first American she faced in Indian Wells this year, so could we have an upset on the cards?
She’s facing Emma Navarro in the fourth round here, who just took out Svitolina in round three – an impressive victory. So, taking these factors into account, here’s how I think it will go:
Sabalenka to win 2-0 @ 11/20 (1.55)
I mentioned that Emma Navarro is playing great tennis above, but now she faces a player who is in a different league. Of course, Aryna Sabalenka is the world number 2 right now, and she looked to be back at her best against Raducanu last round. So, assuming she puts in a similar performance, I think it will be a straight-set win for her.
Under 20.5 games @ 8/11 (1.73)
Should Sabalenka get off to a quick start against Navarro, I believe there is every chance of this match consisting of fewer than 20.5 games. Sure, this would require a few breaks of serve and a straight-sets victory for Sabalenka. But, in reality, this is very possible.
Sabalenka is the heavy favourite here, hence her implied chance of 80% for the win. As for Navarro, her probability of taking out Sabalenka is just 21.70%.
Putting things like my predictions and Indian Wells 2024 preview aside now, let’s focus on the two players in greater detail.
Without question, Emma Navarro is one of the rising stars in the women’s game. At just 22 years of age, she’s ranked 23 in the world, and she has the sort of game that will help her challenge for the biggest titles in the future. That said, she’s come through two brutal three-set battles to reach this point, and given Sabalenka’s physical style of tennis, she’s going to find this one very tough.
Aryna Sabalenka preview
On her day, I believe that Aryna Sabalenka is the most dangerous player in the women’s game. Sure, players like Swiatek and Rybakina also have great skills, but her sheer power, precision, and competitiveness make Sabalenka pretty special. Of course, if she lands her serves and forehands against Navarro, the outcome here is in her hands.
Emma Navarro and Aryna Sabalenka have never faced each other in a WTA event. So with a clean slate, one of them is guaranteed to have a 1-0 lead once this match is done.
Key match details
- Match Schedule – March 13th, 18:00 GMT
- Venue – Indian Wells, USA
- Viewing Options – Sky Sports, Tennis TV
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