ROME (AP) — Naomi Osaka looked comfortable in her opening match at the Italian Open, beating 45th-ranked Clara Burel 7-6 (2), 6-1 on Wednesday.
It was Osaka’s first victory over a top-50 player on clay since defeating Victoria Azarenka at the 2019 French Open.
Osaka was proud of the way she maintained her mental focus after dropping her serve while serving for the first set at 5-3.
“Just being able to hang in there and eventually close it on my terms is something that I’m very proud of myself for,” she said.
It’s also the first time that Osaka is playing in Rome since 2019 — when she reached the quarterfinals.
Osaka, who was formerly ranked No. 1 but is now No. 173 after a maternity break, served eight aces and produced 27 winners to her opponent’s 10. She’ll next face 19th-seeded Marta Kostyuk, who reached the final of a clay event in Stuttgart, Germany, recently.
Spanish prosecutors recommend 2nd investigation into Shakira's taxes be thrown out
EDEN CONFIDENTIAL: John Lennon's son Julian to sell his £22 million 18th
Prince Harry and William 'have no plans for a reunion during visits for King Charles' coronation'
16,000 SQ FT home in Montana goes on sale for just $10
Hong Kong court bans 'Glory to Hong Kong' song
Shocking moment Oakland jewelry shop owner cowers in terror as gang of hammer
Netflix fans are left STUNNED by the streaming site's 'most UNHINGED' show yet
Met Gala 2024: Photos from the Mark Hotel
Bernie Sanders wants to spend $10BILLION on long Covid 'moonshot' operation
Heartbreak of MasterChef star, 21, whose older sister died with 'no warning'
Super Tuesday: What is it and why is it so important?