Maria Timofeeva vs Naomi Osaka Preview & Prediction | 2026 China Open | Second Round

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Maria Timofeeva takes on Naomi Osaka in round two of the China Open. 

Ranking points: WTA 1000

Start date/time: 2 October 2026 at 3:00 am

Venue: National Tennis Center, Beijing, China

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 Maria Timofeeva vs Naomi Osaka ticket information

Maria Timofeeva vs Naomi Osaka prediction

Maria Timofeeva continued her fine run of form after a win over Darja Vidmanova in the first-round of the China Open. She won a title in Porto a few days ago, with Timofeeva carrying that momentum into Beijing after a 6-3 6-3 win in one hour and 24 minutes. She won 78% of her first serves and converted four out of six break point opportunities. She is up to 66 in the live rankings, a career best.

Her opponent is Naomi Osaka. The four-time Grand Slam champion battled through the first three rounds of the US Open but was well beaten by Elena Rybakina in the round-of-16. Osaka is without a title in 2026, but she has been consistent for the most part. She will now hope for a strong end to the campaign and remains inside the top 20 of the world rankings.

Osaka is likely to be tested by Timofeeva, who has now won her last six matches in succession and should be able to trouble her for at least a set. Nevertheless, the 28-year-old’s superior serve and proven level make her a clear favourite. 

Maria Timofeeva vs Naomi Osaka tip: Over 20.5 games