TOKYO — In a thrilling match at the Pan Pacific Open, Naomi Osaka triumphed over Italy’s Jasmine Paolini, winning 6-3, 7-6 (4) before a supportive home crowd on Tuesday, securing her spot in the second round of this prestigious WTA 500 event.
This victory marks a sweet redemption for Osaka, who is seeded No. 7, as she avenged her defeat to Paolini from the Miami Open last year, which was their only prior encounter.
The 29-year-old powerhouse fired seven aces compared to Paolini’s solitary ace, with the match extending over 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, is showcasing some of her finest tennis since making her return following the birth of her daughter, Shai, three years ago.
Despite her successful return, Osaka mentioned earlier this week that she would consider stepping away from the sport if Shai ever expressed the desire for her to do so.
Elena Rybakina, the No. 1 seed and reigning top-ranked player in the WTA, enjoyed a first-round bye.
However, two prominent players, No. 2 Maja Chawlinska and No. 4 Belinda Bencic, have unfortunately withdrawn from the competition due to injuries.
