Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa Preview & Prediction | 2024 Miami Open | First Round
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THE FACTS
What is this tournament classed as in terms of ranking points? WTA 1000
When is Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa on and what time does it start? Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa will take place on Tuesday 19th March, 2024 – not before 20:00 (UK)
Where is Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa taking place? Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, USA
What surface is Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa being played on? Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa will take place on an outdoor hard court
Where can I get tickets for Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa? Visit this link for the latest ticket information for Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa
What channel is Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa on in the UK? Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa will be televised live on Sky Sports in the UK
Where can I stream Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa in the UK? Sky Sports subscribers can stream Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa live on Sky Go
THE PREDICTION
Former world number one Simona Halep has missed more than 18 months from the WTA tour following her shock ban for testing positive for banned substances at the US Open in 2022, with her initial four-year ban reduced to just nine months last week. The Romanian was handed a wildcard by the Miami Open straight away to set the scene for an incredible return to the sport on Tuesday, with the world’s sport media in attendance this fortnight to see how she fares. Former number two Paula Badosa has also missed a healthy chunk of the last 18 months through various recurring injuries and it remains to be seen if she is fit to play this blockbuster after dropping out of Indian Wells two weeks ago. If cleared to play, the likelihood of this match reaching a natural conclusion seems relatively low but at their respective best levels this would be a fascinating contest between two former Indian Wells champions well capable of completing the career Sunshine Double.
Halep beat Badosa in straight sets twice in 2022 but neither player brings anything like their peak selves into this contest. Halep will be desperate to make a statement in her long-awaited return and backing her to earn at least a set feels the sensible way to avoid a result here.
TIP: SIMONA HALEP TO WIN A SET
