- Naomi Osaka is the +500 second-option favorite on the odds boards for the U.S. Open.
- Osaka hasn’t made it past the third round in each of her last five events.
- Iga Swiatek +1200 and Bianca Andreescu +1200 could be better betting options.
NEW YORK – Naomi Osaka is the defending U.S. Open champion, but despite her success at the event, could be one of the most overrated players entering the tournament.
Why Naomi Osaka Should Be Faded
Naomi Osaka has won the U.S. Open twice and is the current reigning champion. However, at +500 odds and the second option to win the event with sportsbooks, she is likely overvalued by online gambling sites considering her recent performances on the court.
Women's US Open 2021 Odds
- Ashleigh Barty +350
- Naomi Osaka +500
- Aryna Sabalenka +1000
- Bianca Andreescu +1200
- Iga Swiatek +1200
- Simona Halep +1400
- Cori Gauff +1600
- Garbine Muguruza +1600
- Karolina Pliskova +1800
Osaka has yet to make it past the third round of any of her last five events. She withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon citing mental health issues but has not been able to return to her once dominant form on the court since.
Furthermore, Osaka has never gone back-to-back at any major event in her career, failing to defend any of her four Grand Slam titles. Given her history and recent showings, Osaka is an easy target to fade for the event.
Who’s Worth Betting On?
Ashleigh Barty +350 is the favorite for a reason but anyone looking to beat the favorite can look in a couple of directions.
Iga Swiatek (+1200)
Iga Swiatek is listed as the fourth or fifth option on sports betting sites but could realistically make a run at the championship.
At just 20-years-old, she is No. 8 in the WTA world rankings and is poised for a breakout performance at any time now. It could very well be sooner rather than later.
Bianca Andreescu (+1200)
Bianca Andreescu won the U.S. Open in 2019 but hasn’t had much success otherwise in major events.
Either she had one lucky weekend two years ago or something about this specific tournament allows her to succeed. Ultimately, it’s up to the individual sports bettor to decide which one of those reasons is true.