Aryna Sabalenka vs Himeno Sakatsume Preview & Prediction | 2026 Indian Wells Open (BNP Paribas Open) | Second Round
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Aryna Sabalenka begins her Indian Wells campaign against Himeno Sakatsume.
Ranking points: WTA 1000
Start date/time:
Venue: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, Indian Wells, USA
Surface: Outdoor hard
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports Tennis / USA – Tennis Channel
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go / USA – Tennis Channel
Tickets: Visit this link for the latest Aryna Sabalenka vs Himeno Sakatsume ticket information
Aryna Sabalenka vs Himeno Sakatsume prediction
Aryna Sabalenka makes her return, having not featured since her defeat in the final of the Australian Open. The world number one was seeking a fifth major title and a third in Melbourne, but she was defeated by Elena Rybakina, despite going a break up in the deciding set. Sabalenka won the Brisbane International at the start of the year. She is a two-time finalist at this event, in 2023 and 2025, but she is yet to win the title at Indian Wells.
She faces Himeno Sakatsume. Sakatsume beat Alycia Parks in straight sets to advance to the second-round. The Japanese now has three wins in a row, having qualified for the event.
Sabalenka decided not to compete in either Doha or Dubai, both WTA 1000 events, and has not played a competitive match in over a month. Nevertheless, she will be raring to go and is the clear favourite to start her campaign with a convincing win.
Aryna Sabalenka vs Himeno Sakatsume tip: Under 20.5 games
