AUCKLAND, New Zealand (AP) — The 2025 season has commenced in style for four-time Grand Slam singles champion Naomi Osaka, as she secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the Auckland tennis classic by defeating Julia Grabher with a score of 7-5, 6-3 on Wednesday.
Despite contending with challenging weather conditions including a swirling breeze and a lengthy rain delay, Osaka managed to navigate her way past the second round. The adverse wind affected her ball toss at times, but Osaka exhibited resilience by holding onto her serve throughout the match and securing crucial breaks against Grabher in each set. This victory marks Osaka’s second appearance in the Auckland quarterfinals, having previously reached this stage during her sole visit to New Zealand in 2017.
Reflecting on her performance, Osaka acknowledged the tough challenge posed by Grabher, emphasizing the need to maintain focus and composure during the match. She credited her recent collaboration with esteemed coach Patrick Mouratoglou, known for his past association with Serena Williams, for providing valuable guidance and strategic insights. Osaka emphasized her commitment to executing key strategies and maintaining a proactive approach on the court, reflecting on her readiness to face the competition.
Osaka showcased her physical readiness by displaying no signs of the back injury that prematurely halted her 2024 season. Her agility, strong baseline play, and strategic shot-making capabilities were on full display throughout the match. Notably, her powerful first serve emerged as a potent weapon, enabling her to dominate points and assert her authority on crucial moments in the match.
The first set unfolded in a tightly contested manner, with neither player conceding a service break until the pivotal 12th game. Following a brief rain delay, Osaka showed resilience by regaining momentum, securing the first set with a combination of solid serving and effective shot placement. Transitioning into the second set, Osaka continued her assertive play by holding serve convincingly and capitalizing on opportunities to break Grabher’s serve, ultimately asserting her dominance and securing the victory.
The Auckland tournament serves as a preparatory event ahead of the upcoming Australian Open, slated to commence on January 12. The tournament experienced a setback as former U.S. Open champion Emma Raducanu withdrew due to a back injury, while Elise Mertens also opted out of the competition citing injury concerns. As a result, Osaka finds herself navigating a field with altered dynamics, presenting an opportunity to further showcase her form and competitive prowess as she progresses through the competition.
Osaka’s successful start to the 2025 season in Auckland underscores her determination and skill as she aims to build momentum heading into the upcoming Grand Slam events. With a blend of strategic acumen, physical prowess, and mental fortitude, Osaka continues to establish herself as a formidable force on the tennis circuit, poised to make significant strides in her pursuit of further accolades and victories in the season ahead.
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