Naomi OSAKA’s commanding performance, outplays Sara ERRANI in straight sets at Indian Wells

Naomi Osaka (No. 287) defeated Sara Errani (No. 100) 6-3, 6-1 in her debut at Indian Wells. The 2018 tournament champion gradually took control and ended up playing practically a monologue against the former French Open runner-up.

Since her return at the beginning of the season, Osaka has surprised with a good level in her tournaments. In fact, her last appearance was at the WTA 1000 Doha Open, where she reached the quarterfinals.

This time, the former world No. 1 once again delivered a solid performance overall. The first set was somewhat unusual with breaks from both sides and several errors from each player. With the score at 1-1, there was a series of four consecutive breaks, during which Osaka made some uncharacteristic unforced errors.

With the score tied at 3-3, Osaka managed to hold her serve in a crucial game that lasted 18 points and tilted in favor of the Japanese player. Errani had an 89% first-serve percentage, but it was too weak against Osaka, who won 57% of return points in a set that ended 6-3 in favor of the 4-times Grand Slam champion.

The second set seemed like Errani could get back into the match after saving three break points and winning several consecutive points that gave her good opportunities to start the second set in the lead.

Osaka adopted a more conservative playing style, focused on central shots, and took fewer risks on open opportunities. This adjustment helped minimize her unforced errors, ultimately allowing her to dominate Errani.

The Italian struggled to make an impact after her initial service game and went on to lose the subsequent six games consecutively. This allowed Osaka to secure a commanding victory with a scoreline of 6-3, 6-1 in just one hour and 10 minutes. In the upcoming second round, the Japanese player is set to face Liudmila Samsonova (14th seed), who received a bye in the first round.