Aryna Sabalenka vs Coco Gauff Prediction: Coco Gauff is hugely underated

The quarterfinal face-off between Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff on October 12, 2024, is sure to give the tournament quite a spark. Both the ladies have been in extraordinary shape: unstoppable in their winning streaks and a couple of titles each taken recently. This will be the match where Sabalenka's aggressive power game will be pitted against Gauff's excellent defensive skill with her counter-attacking capabilities.

The Belarusian World No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka is all about an aggressive, high-risk game. Coming into the match on a fine run of form, 9-1 in her last 10 matches, fresh off a commanding straight-sets win over Magdalena Frech, confidence will be sky-high after reaching the Australian Open final and multiple deep tournament runs this season. Sabalenka will be determined to overpower Gauff.

Sabalenka is most likely to stay with her aggressive baseline game, trying to control the points with the heavy groundstroke and powerful serve. However, her consistency may well be put to test by the exceptional defense of Gauff. First serve and not committing double faults will be very important for Sabalenka.

American World No. 4 Coco Gauff is on an astonishing 9-match winning streak, boasting 8 straight sets. Gauff has been in absolutely brutal form, with her most recent win coming via the thrashing of Magda Linette. Having a stable 2024 season which featured her title at the US Open, Gauff should have plenty of confidence coming into Wuhan. With her quick pacing, versatility around the court, and the ability to stay mentally tough under pressure, Gauff is a challenging opponent for Sabalenka.

That would require the need for Gauff to stay patient and capitalize on Sabalenka's tendency for unforced errors. The important strengths for Gauff in neutralizing the power of Sabalenka would be turning defense into offense, especially with the backhand and improved serve. If Sabalenka starts to fold under the pressure, then Gauff's excellent return game-again, especially against second serves- would give her the upper hand. For both players, high first serve percentages and capitalization of break point opportunities will be massive in terms of establishing momentum

This will be a real contrast of styles encounter, with Sabalenka's pure explosive power pitted against the tactical and defensive mastery of Gauff. While Sabalenka has every tool to dominate, much of her success will depend on limiting unforced errors and securing a high serving percentage. Gauff, for her part, wants to elongate rallies and interfere with Sabalenka's rhythm before capitalizing when her consistency dips. Indoor conditions in Wuhan, with its fast court, might favor Sabalenka's aggressive plays slightly.

Both players are coming off a phenomenal week of form, but this could perhaps be the point where the recent streak and ability of Gauff to win come most in handy.

• Over 21 Games @ 1.6 Odds
• Coco Gauff Win @ 2.33 Odds
• Aryna Sabalenka to Win First Set @ 1.61 Odds