Katie Boulter vs Himeno Sakatsume Preview & Prediction | 2026 Japan Women’s Open | First Round

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Katie Boulter meets Himeno Sakatsume in the first round at the 2026 Japan Women’s Open at the Utsubo Tennis Center in Osaka, Japan.

Ranking points: WTA 250

Start date/time: 19 October 2026 at 3:00 am

Venue: Utsubo Tennis Center, Osaka, Japan

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 Katie Boulter vs Himeno Sakatsume ticket information

Katie Boulter vs Himeno Sakatsume prediction

Katie Boulter will attempt to soften what has been a tough end to her 2026 campaign in Japan.

The Brit has lost ten of her last 13 matches, but could yet end her season in the top 50.

The 30-year-old meets Himeno Sakatsume for the second time with the Japanese underdog very much enjoying a winning habit.

The 25-year-old sits outside the top 100 and has just three-tour level wins, but has only lost three of her last ten across all levels and recently reached the last four at the Samsun 125.

Sakatsume won in straight sets when they met at ITF level three years ago and given form and the fact she’s playing in her homeland, it may well be worth the punt on the upset.

Katie Boulter vs Himeno Sakatsume tip: Himeno Sakatsume to win