WTA Cincinnati Open predictions: Simona Halep can continue resurgence

Free tennis tips, best bets and analysis for the WTA Cincinnati Western and Southern Open, starting Monday

When to bet

Starts 3pm Monday

Best bet

Simona Halep
1pt 8-1 bet365

Tournament preview

Serena Williams is sure to be the centre of attention for as long as she remains in this week's WTA Cincinnati Open.

The tennis legend announced her impending retirement from the sport earlier this week and an American crowd will ensure an electric atmosphere for her first-round clash with US Open champion Emma Raducanu.

It is to be expected that both players will be affected by the occasion and it looks one to swerve from a betting perspective.

Iga Swiatek remains comfortably atop the world rankings, but the air of invincibility that the Polish ace built up during a 37-match unbeaten run in the first half of the year has been shaken by recent defeats.

She has a pretty tough draw, too, with a number of her recent conquerors lying in wait, as well as smart teenager Cori Gauff housed in her quarter, so the favourite can be taken on.

Having slipped to 20th in the rankings, former world number one Simona Halep has enjoyed something of a comeback this year.

The Romanian is not yet at the peak of her powers, but a run to the semi-finals at Wimbledon without dropping a set showed what she is capable of.

Halep played in the final in Toronto on Sunday night, where the two highest seeds in her quarter of the Cincinnati draw, Ons Jabeur and Paula Badosa, both retired from their second-round matches.

Halep has reached the final in Cincinnati three times and looks a fine bet to finally claim the title this time around.

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