Naomi Osaka Continues Impressive Comeback with Victory at Miami Open
Former World No.1 Naomi Osaka showcased her dominance once again as she defeated Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-3, 6-4 in the first round of the Miami Open on Wednesday. The four-time Grand Slam champion needed just 1 hour and 18 minutes to secure the win, maintaining her perfect record of never losing her opening match at the tournament.
“Honestly, this is probably the most free that I was able to hit my balls, like, the closest to the feeling I want to capture going forward,” Osaka expressed after her victory. “I would say this is probably my best match in terms of shot-making. I felt like the balls I wanted to hit were there. I’m pretty happy with this one.”
Successful Return to the Court
Osaka’s return to the Miami Open marked a successful comeback after her maternity leave. Her last appearance at the tournament in 2022 saw her finish as the runner-up to Iga Swiatek. Following the birth of her daughter Shai in July 2023, Osaka has been gradually making her way back to top form.
Despite a slow start to the season with a 1-3 record, Osaka arrived in Miami with four wins in her last six matches. Her journey to the quarterfinals at WTA 1000 Doha was a significant milestone, marking her first quarterfinal since the 2022 Miami Open.
By defeating Cocciaretto, a former Top 30 player, Osaka added another quality win to her 2024 campaign. Cocciaretto, who recently claimed the WTA 125 title in Charleston, South Carolina, posed a formidable challenge for Osaka.
Osaka’s impeccable record against Italian players continued as she secured her fifth victory against opponents from Italy. Her recent triumph over Sara Errani in Indian Wells further solidified her dominance on the court.
Impressive Performance
Wednesday’s match highlighted Osaka’s exceptional serving skills, with six aces and an 85 percent first-service points won. She maintained control throughout the game, never allowing Cocciaretto to hold a break point.
Securing an early break in the first set, Osaka quickly gained a 4-1 lead. Despite Cocciaretto’s efforts to fight back, Osaka’s relentless play earned her the one-set advantage. In the second set, Osaka’s strategic play and powerful shots led her to a decisive victory, closing out the match with an ace on her second match point.
Looking Ahead
Osaka’s next challenge awaits in the second round against No.15 seed Elina Svitolina, another returning mom who has made a remarkable comeback to the Top 20. The upcoming showdown between Osaka and Svitolina promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both players having evenly split their previous meetings.
Reflecting on her upcoming match against Svitolina, Osaka shared her admiration for the Ukrainian player’s resilience and skill. As she continues her journey back to the top of the rankings, Osaka remains focused on her goal of reclaiming her position among the tennis elite.