Naomi OSAKA’s dominance unleashed, conquers Elisabetta COCCIARETTO in Miami Open clash

Naomi Osaka continues to perform at a high level in her return to the Tour and defeated Elisabetta Cocciaretto 6-3, 6-4 to reach the second round of the Miami Open. The Japanese player notches her fifth victory in WTA 1000 events this season and appears to be on track to reach her peak form.

The 4-times Grand Slam champion returned to Miami after a year's absence, having reached the final in her last appearance in 2022 but falling to Iga Swiatek. Cocciaretto suffered an early exit from Indian Wells in the first round against Peyton Stearns, but took the opportunity to enter the Charleston Challenger and clinch the title.

The start of the match heavily favored Osaka, who won the first three games consecutively and took a commanding 3-0 lead. With the break in her favor, the Japanese player had no difficulties on serve and even repeatedly pressured Cocciaretto from the return end.

Although the Italian saved four break points in the sixth game, she ultimately couldn't even create an opportunity against Osaka, who served winning 80% of points on her first serve and 86% on her second to close the set 6-3 in her favor.

The Italian came out playing more aggressively in the second set and took more risks in the rallies, which was effective in the early part of the set to maintain parity at 2-2. Cocciaretto made a couple of unforced errors in the fifth game that proved costly, losing her serve to love, which was the decisive advantage for Osaka.

The former world No. 1 maintained her effectiveness on serve until the end of the set and ultimately secured the victory 6-3, 6-4. In the second round, she will face the 15th seed Elina Svitolina, against whom she holds a head-to-head record of 3-3, with their last encounter taking place at the 2019 Australian Open when Osaka won her second Grand Slam title.