Tennis fans, buckle up! Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff are set for a thrilling Round of 16 clash at the 2024 China Open. With their rivalry tied at 2-2 and both players in fiery form, this match has all the ingredients for a nail-biting showdown. Will Osaka’s comeback continue, or will Gauff’s bumpy season see a new high? One thing’s for sure—this one’s going to keep us on the edge of our seats! (Our prediction at the end of this article)
Naomi Osaka’s Promising Run at the 2024 China Open
Naomi Osaka is making waves at the 2024 China Open as she continues her comeback after maternity leave. Currently ranked No. 73, the four-time Grand Slam champion has displayed impressive form, advancing to the Round of 16 in Beijing.
Her latest victory came in the third round, where she dispatched World No. 60 Katie Volynets in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. The match, originally delayed due to rain, saw Osaka dominating on serve and controlling rallies with her aggressive groundstrokes. She fired five aces and broke Volynets’ serve three times to secure her spot in the next round.
This is the first time Osaka has won three consecutive matches since May, and her collaboration with new coach Patrick Mouratoglou appears to be paying off. As the 2019 China Open champion, Osaka is relishing her return to Beijing and hoping to build on her strong performances.
Round of 128 stats: Osaka def. Lucia Bronzetti 6-3, 6-2
- Ace Rate: 11.4%
- First Serve Points Won: 79.1%
- Second Serve Points Won: 37.0%
- Break Points Saved: 6/7
- Time: 1h23
- Unforced Errors: 19
Round of 64 stats: Osaka def. Yulia Putintseva 3-6, 6-4, 6-2
- Ace Rate: 6.8%
- First Serve Points Won: 69.6%
- Second Serve Points Won: 47.6%
- Break Points Converted: 6/10
- Time: 1h46
Round of 32 stats: Osaka def. Katie Volynets 6-3, 6-2
- Ace Rate: 10.0%
- First Serve Points Won: 82.1%
- Second Serve Points Won: 68.2%
- Break Points Converted: 0/0
- Time: 1h17
Coco Gauff’s Season on the Rise Now?
Coco Gauff, fresh off a sensational US Open win, has been one of the standout players of the 2024 season. The 20-year-old American stormed into the Round of 16 after dispatching her previous opponents with her characteristic blend of athleticism and power. Gauff has been working on her game throughout the year, particularly with an aggressive serve and a forehand that needs improvement.
Gauff is also excited about the upcoming clash with Osaka, calling it a “cool test.” Their head-to-head rivalry, tied at 2-2, adds extra intrigue to this encounter, with their last match already two years ago. Gauff’s confidence is now buzzing a bit, and she will be looking to maintain her excellent form as she takes on a resurgent Osaka in what promises to be one of the tournament’s most exciting matches.
Round of 64 stats: Gauff def. Clara Burel 7-5 6-3
- Ace Rate: 1.5%
- First Serve Points Won: 82%
- Second Serve Points Won: 37.5%
- Break Points Saved: 3/6
- Time: 1h40
Round of 32 stats: Gauff def. Katie Boulter 7-5, 6-2
- Ace Rate: 9.1%
- First Serve Points Won: 82%
- Second Serve Points Won: 50%
- Break Points Saved: 0/1
- Time: 1h24
A Must-Watch Contest and our prediction
This match between Naomi Osaka and Coco Gauff has all the makings of a classic encounter. Both players are looking to assert their dominance, with Osaka aiming to continue her return to the top and Gauff determined to add another victory to her China Open run. As they face off in Beijing, tennis fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting to see this Round of 16 contest. It surely promises to be one of the standout encounters of the tournament.
Our prediction: Coco Gauff to WIN. With no American fans breathing in her neck in China she might play more freely.