Former world No. 1 Andre Agassi took part in the pre-event launch of the MGM Slam in Las Vegas, an exhibition match featuring world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka against four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka. This high-profile showdown serves as a warm-up before Indian Wells.
The main event of the night will see Osaka and Sabalenka face off, but before that, there will be a mixed doubles match featuring eight-time Grand Slam champion Andre Agassi and American silver medalist from Athens 2004, Mardy Fish.
Ahead of the event, Agassi was asked about Osaka and Sabalenka’s playing styles and their strongest qualities. “I love watching them both play. I think they are both incredibly great ball strikers,” Agassi said. “They are both easy to root for. One hides their emotions incredibly well, the other probably reveals them a little too much.”
Discussing Osaka, Agassi highlighted her strengths: “Naomi’s backhand is such a solid, reliable shot in both directions. Her forehand from the centre of the court to the left side is probably her biggest weapon. Defending her forehand is a little bit harder for her when it comes to handling that shot.”
On the other hand, Agassi addressed an aspect of Sabalenka’s game that he believes she could adjust. “Aryna’s power is remarkable. Her backhand is very solid, and her forehand is a bomb. I think she swings at it 100%, which is great to watch, but an unnecessary thing to do because at 85%, she would get even better direction, and it would still be incredibly effective.”
He also commented on Sabalenka’s serve: “She has changed her toss and put it down a lot, but this year, it looks like it has crept back up a bit. So I don’t know what is going on, I’ll check that out! But watching these two big hitters go at it is very fun.”
Naomi Osaka and Aryna Sabalenka have faced each other only once, with the Japanese star winning in the 2018 US Open Round of 16 en route to her first Grand Slam title. Both Osaka and Sabalenka have won all their Grand Slam titles on hard courts, with Osaka claiming four major trophies and Sabalenka securing three.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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