Naomi Osaka’s strong return: Dispatches Ons Jabeur in Canadian Open first round

Wednesday, 07 August 2024 at 23:05

Naomi Osaka (No. 95) defeated Ons Jabeur (No. 16) 6-3, 6-2 in the first round of the Canadian Open. The former world No. 1 left behind the disappointment of Paris 2024, where she was defeated in the first round by Angelique Kerber (7-5, 6-3).

The Japanese player secured a win at the Canadian Open for the first time since 2019, a year in which she reached the quarterfinals. Osaka, who entered the tournament thanks to a wildcard from the organizers, will face Belgian Elise Mertens, who easily won her debut match against Katie Volynets.

Naomi Osaka shines in Canadian Open

The first set quickly tilted in Osaka's favor as she secured an early break and, with solid service games, took a 3-0 lead. Both players struggled to find consistency with their first serves (Osaka 44%, Jabeur 41%), but the Japanese player was more effective in capitalizing on her opponent's second serve.

Read also

With the score at 5-2 in Osaka's favor, she had another break opportunity that would have given her the set, but Jabeur managed to hold her serve. Nevertheless, the Tunisian could not threaten her rival's serve, and Osaka clinched the set 6-3, having won 56% of the points played.

In the second set, Jabeur continued to struggle with her first serve (just 35%), while the 4-time Grand Slam champion found greater consistency when serving. Despite a balanced start, Osaka began to dominate the match, converting three out of the next four break points and secured the victory 6-1 after winning five consecutive games.

Read also

In the second round, Osaka will face Elise Mertens (No. 35), who comes off a straight-sets victory over American Katie Volynets (No. 57). Additionally, Osaka is solidifying her position within the top 100, having guaranteed at least the world No. 88 spot in the next WTA ranking update.

wta

@WTA

·Follow

First strike 👉 Naomi @naomiosaka thumps a forehand into the corner to take the first set 6-3 over Jabeur. #NBO24

Watch on X

8:30 PM · Aug 7, 2024

615

Read 6 replies

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.

See author's posts

claps 0visitors 0

Has Italy taken over world tennis?: From Grand Slams to Olympics success

Closer to Retirement? Rafa Nadal withdraws from the US Open