National Bank Open Preview: Sabalenka Favored, Navarro a Potential Upset

The National Bank Open, a prestigious WTA 1000 tournament, returns to Toronto this week, featuring a star-studded lineup of players. While Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, and Jasmine Paolini will be absent, the tournament will showcase the talents of Aryna Sabalenka, Coco Gauff, and many others vying for the coveted title.

The tournament's fast court conditions favor players with powerful serves and baseline play. Aryna Sabalenka, known for her explosive power, is the tournament favorite at +300 odds. Coco Gauff, despite a disappointing Olympic outing, remains a contender at +340.

However, there are several players to watch who could challenge the favorites. Leylah Fernandez, the Canadian crowd favorite, has a favorable draw and the potential to make a deep run. Emma Navarro, a rising American star, has a strong all-around game and could surprise at +1600 odds.

Navarro's defensive prowess, combined with her baseline power and precision, makes her a potential threat to the top seeds. She has previously defeated Sabalenka and could be poised for a breakthrough performance in Toronto.

Other players to keep an eye on include Naomi Osaka, Paula Badosa, and Ons Jabeur. Osaka, a former world number one, will be looking to regain her form after a challenging season. Badosa and Jabeur are both in-form players who could make a run to the latter stages of the tournament.

The National Bank Open promises to be an exciting tournament with a wide-open field. While Sabalenka is the favorite, there are several players who could challenge her and make a run for the title.

Tags: #NationalBankOpen, #WTA1000, #Tennis, #ArynaSabalenka, #CocoGauff