Naomi Osaka survived a tough battle against local wildcard Hailey Baptiste, who came through qualifying, and staged another comeback at the Miami Open, clinching a hard-fought victory 7-6[8-6], 3-6, 6-4.
The former World No. 1 found herself 4-2 down in the deciding set but showed her champion mentality to turn things around against a remarkable performance from Baptiste, who came close to pulling off an upset. Osaka's next challenge will be sixth seed Jasmine Paolini.
Osaka edges tense tiebreak to claim opening set
The opening set was a tight affair, with Osaka (No. 61) having to save a break point right at the start to avoid falling behind early. Baptiste (No. 98) held her serve comfortably, while Osaka struggled slightly to maintain hers. Nevertheless, the four-time Grand Slam champion won 65% of points on her serve compared to Baptiste’s 68%.
At 4-3 in Osaka’s favour, she finally put Baptiste under pressure but squandered a break point, keeping things level. The American stunned Osaka by breaking to go up 6-5, earning the chance to serve for the set. However, the pressure mounted, and Osaka broke back to force a tiebreak.
In the decisive moments, both players dropped serve twice, reaching 2-2. Baptiste took a 6-5 lead, earning a set point, but couldn’t convert. Osaka then claimed three consecutive points to seal the set 7-6[8-6].
Baptiste bounces back, dominates second set
Osaka rode her momentum into the second set, breaking Baptiste early to lead 2-0 — a harsh scoreline for the American, who was playing an impressive match. Baptiste’s persistence paid off as she broke back to level at 2-2, regaining control. The surprise grew when she secured a second consecutive break, surging ahead 4-2 after winning four straight games.
The match became a rollercoaster when Osaka broke back and had the chance to serve to level the score. However, Baptiste’s efficiency against Osaka’s second serve earned her a third break in the set. The American then held serve without faltering, closing out the set 6-3.
Osaka stages comeback to clinch final set and Miami victory
The deciding set was once again up for grabs. Both players held serve early, staying level until 2-2, when Baptiste broke to take the lead. The World No. 98 extended her advantage to 4-2, but Osaka wasn’t done fighting.
The Japanese star stepped up in the crucial moments, breaking back to level at 4-4. Her experience shone through as she edged ahead 5-4, forcing Baptiste to serve to stay in the match. Osaka capitalised on her second match point, sealing the victory 7-6[8-6], 3-6, 6-4.
In the fourth round, she’ll face sixth seed Jasmine Paolini, who advanced after Ons Jabeur retired mid-match (4-3, ret.). Osaka also secures a five-spot rise in the rankings, climbing to World No. 56.
Match Statistics Baptiste vs. Osaka
| Baptiste | VS | Osaka |
|---|---|---|
| Service | ||
| 9 | Aces | 13 |
| 3 | Double Faults | 4 |
| 59% (70/118) | 1st Service Percentage | 59% (61/104) |
| 67% (47/70) | 1st Service Points Won | 69% (42/61) |
| 48% (23/48) | 2nd Service Points Won | 51% (22/43) |
| 62% (8/13) | Break Points Saved | 50% (5/10) |
| 69% (11/16) | Service Games | 67% (10/15) |
| Return | ||
| 31% (19/61) | 1st Return Points Won | 33% (23/70) |
| 49% (21/43) | 2nd Return Points Won | 52% (25/48) |
| - | Break Points Saved | - |
| Other | ||
| 3h 02m | Match Duration | 3h 02m |
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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