I reckon this match will be won and lost on serve. We know Jo's game is pretty much built around hers and it's really the weak spot in Vika's game. This week Vika seems to be getting more penetration on her shots (faster surface might be why) but her first serve is very retunable for someone like Jo and her second serve is poor.

the addict wrote:

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As quoted on twitter

Osaka: "I was (and am) ready and prepared to concede the match to my opponent. However, after my announcement and lengthy consultation with the WTA and USTA, I have agreed at their request to play on Friday."

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 Maybe the best outcome for all. Hope she doesn't get too much stick.

Probably about to lose the second set. Azarenka stepping it up.

Jo a break down in the 3rd 1-3.

Shame but decent week and Jo should be more confident heading into the US Open

So good to see Azarenka at that level. Brilliant match.

Jo has had a good week and playing to a high standard, she could have levelled that second set but it was nip and tuck.

Azarenka looming in Jo's quarter at the US Open. It's a really tough section actually.

JonH comes home wrote:

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I think well done and well said by Naomi. Milos Raonic spoke well and said:

Wednesday, Milos Raonic said the ATP and WTA should consider a joint action that goes beyond a small group of players.
I think real disruption, thats what makes change, and I think a lot of real disruption is caused by affecting people in a monetary way and can force some kind of change, he said.

I dont think Naomi should be left to make a stand alone, the other players left should join her. But I think better would be for the organisers to pull the tournament now and not leave the players needing to make that decision for themselves.

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I agree, Very very challenging for Naomi. Unfortunately unlike the great black athletes playing Basketball & Baseball Naomi is never going to get the same sort of support from the WTA that they are from their owners, she must feel pretty isolated right now. Nothing new for her I know but given the circumstances (Tennis trying to get back on its feet) & sensitivities pretty overwhelming. Her boyfriend Cordae is heavily involved in BLM and was arrested protesting against the shooting of Breonna Taylor in July.