Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang – First Round – Preview & Prediction | 2022 Western & Southern Open
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THE FACTS
When is Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang on and what time does it start? Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang will take place on Tuesday 16th February, 2022 – not before 16:00 (UK)
Where is Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang taking place? Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang will take place at Lindner Family Tennis Center in Ohio, USA
What surface is Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang being played on? Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang will take place on an outdoor hard court
Where can I get tickets for Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang? Visit this link for the latest ticket information for Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang
What channel is Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang on in the UK? Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang will be televised live on the Amazon Prime app on Smart TVs
Where can I stream Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang in the UK? Amazon Prime subscribers can stream Naomi Osaka vs Shuai Zhang live on Prime Video
THE PREDICTION
Former world number one Naomi Osaka was a tight set down to Kaia Kanepi before a back issue ended her Canada Masters campaign at the earliest opportunity on Tuesday. The 24-year-old will play in Cincinnati if she is remotely fit, with matches needed ahead of the US Open later this month, and she has pedigree at this tournament after finishing runner-up to Victoria Azarenka in 2020 when it was played in New York. World number 45 Shuai Zhang found some of her best form earlier this season, especially at WTA 250 level where she won a third WTA title at the Lyon Open in February, but more recently the 33-year-old has struggled to impose herself on draws. The Chinese lost to Simona Halep in straight sets in the second round in Montreal but she will have a fair chance at the upset here if Osaka plays at 80% fitness. Osaka leads their head-to-head 3-2 and 2-1 on hardcourts but this match should be left well clear of an accumulator as it remains subject to change. Back Osaka to win outright if she makes the court.
