Naomi Osaka has certainly made an impression since her journey began at the US Open. Many are noting her remarkable play.
What unfolded during the first set on Saturday was quite unexpected.
The two-time US Open champion completely took control of the first set, losing only eight points and not allowing her opponent any game wins.
Coco Gauff, set to be Osaka’s next opponent in the fourth round, was in attendance to witness the Japanese player’s impressive third-round match against Dahlia Kasatokina.
In what looked like a straightforward matchup, Osaka appeared ready to dominate against Gauff, who won the 2023 US Open.
Despite that, Osaka’s third-round victory ended with scores of 6-0, 4-6, 6-3, displaying a more vulnerable side in the last two sets when challenged by her Australian counterpart.
After the match, a visibly relieved Osaka shared, “It was a really long journey. I’m happy to be here now. It wasn’t in my heart today.”
In the second set, she struggled a bit, racking up 13 forced errors and growing increasingly frustrated as Kasatokina secured an early break.
Osaka showed her annoyance after a forehand mistake, hands on her hips, while trying to regain her rhythm between points.
In the third set, however, she surged ahead, leading 4-1, energizing the crowd before sealing her victory with a forehand winner that advanced her to the next round.
When asked about facing Gauff, Osaka candidly remarked, “Can someone come in and cheer for me? It’s a bit tough to play an American here, but it feels like I and you all have adopted me.”
