Caroline Garcia shared a humorous reaction to drawing Naomi Osaka in the first round of the Australian Open for the second consecutive year. The 31-year-old French player took to social media with a lighthearted response to facing the same opponent again.
The Japanese star, a two-time Australian Open champion (2019, 2021), boasts a 24-6 record at the tournament (80%). Garcia, meanwhile, holds a 16-13 record in Melbourne, having reached the fourth round twice (2018, 2023).
Garcia laughs off tough AO draw
Their previous first-round encounter in 2024 was one of the tournament’s most intriguing matches. Garcia, seeded 16th at the time, faced former World No. 1 Osaka, who was returning to the WTA Tour after over a year away following the birth of her child.
In a match dominated by powerful serving, Garcia claimed victory 6-4, 7-6. The former WTA Finals champion hit 13 aces and won 89% of points on her first serve, while Osaka recorded 11 aces and won 78% of her first-serve points. Despite the win, Garcia was eliminated in the second round by Magdalena Frech (4-6, 6-7).
This year, neither Garcia (No. 58) nor Osaka (No. 50) enters as a seeded player. The pair have faced off four times, starting with a second-round match at the 2021 Australian Open, which Osaka won en route to the title. In early 2024, Garcia won matches in Melbourne and Miami, while Osaka triumphed in Doha, leaving their head-to-head record tied at 2-2.
“New year, same draw 🔥💣 @AustralianOpen,” posted Garcia, a former World No. 4. “This is starting to be a classic @naomiosaka 😂.”
New year, same draw 🔥💣@AustralianOpen
— Caroline Garcia (@CaroGarcia) January 9, 2025
This is starting to be a classic @naomiosaka 😂
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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