Kerber ends losing streak with victory over Gibbs, set to face Keys in Quarter-Finals at Toray Pan Pacific Open

Keys though had to mount a comeback to see off Diyas though coming from a set down to win 5-7, 6-0, 6-4 meaning it was routine in the end but not at the start of the contest by any means.

Kerber eased past Gibbs who's battle with cancer this year has been well documented and after going down 6-2 in the opening set, the American fought back to claim a double break but 18 winners and six out of 11 break points dispelled the late charge.

It also ends a losing streak for Kerber who claims her first victory since Wimbledon to start her campaign in Osaka well.

The German came into the event having only one win since July but it doesn't get any tougher on the hard courts next up than Keys who has been one of the stand out players this season and will prove a stern test as she aims to return to form.

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