Just saw that Tomoka Miyazaki has swapped over to the Nanoflare 1000z. Quite surprised since it is rather different compared to the NF800Pro that she's been using for quite some time. Anyone has any info on this change? Could it be a painted NF1000z on a NF800Pro frame maybe?

Any other new player/gear observations during this tournament?

If I didn’t count myself, the racket has 21 cross strings in her hand. If I’m not completely mistaken, the string pattern of the NF 800 Pro has 22 cross strings and the NF 1000Z 21 cross strings.
I therefore think a painted NF 800 Pro is rather unlikely.