What an eventful few months Simona Halep has had! The Romanian tennis star was embroiled in a controversy surrounding a doping violation. As a result, she was banned from tennis for four years. However, last month, she won the appeal, and her ban was reduced to nine months, which she has already served. Now, she is ready for a comeback and will play in the Miami Open.

The second leg of the Sunshine Double has already begun with some enthralling tennis action. Expect fireworks when Halep takes on Paula Badosa, a seasoned campaigner, in the first round. Let’s find out who has a better chance to win this contest.

Simona Halep vs Paula Badosa: Preview

Halep has received the green signal, and the time of her much-awaited comeback inches closer. Although Halep has been out of action, she has stayed close to the sport, following her daily training schedule. What she lacks is competitive match practice as she hasn’t played a tournament since the 2022 US Open. Being out of action for more than a year, Halep will have to shrug off any rustiness when she faces Badosa.

On the other hand, Badosa too has had her concerns. She has had an inconsistent start to the 2024 season, with injuries playing a part in this. Badosa had to withdraw from the Indian Wells tournament earlier this month owing to an injury. Thus, both Badosa and Halep will be eyeing a positive comeback when they take on each other in Miami.

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Halep vs Badosa: Head-to-Head

The two have been on the tour for a long time now. Halep and Badosa have faced off against each other twice, with both their battles being in big tournaments. Their first match against each other was at the Madrid Open in 2022, which Halep won in straight sets. In the same year, they faced again at Wimbledon, with the result going Halep’s way. Thus, with a strong head-to-head record, Halep will be the favorite going into this match.

Prediction: Halep to win in straight sets

Despite not playing a tournament in more than a year, Simona Halep will surely be a force to reckon with. The former World Number 1 is predicted to win the match against Badosa in straight sets and make a strong start to her comeback journey. Their match will take place tomorrow.

Miami Open Draw: Daunting Comeback for Simona Halep as She Sets Up Paula Badosa Clash With Aryna Sabalenka Awaiting