"The conditions were tough today" - Anisimova relieved following second straight Grand Slam win over Osaka

Amanda Anisimova secured her second consecutive Grand Slam win over Naomi Osaka on Monday at the 2022 Roland Garros, dispatching of the Japanese superstar to reach the second round.

The American scored a 7-5 6-4 victory in their highly anticipated first round encounter, moving past the former World No.1 in an hour and 30 minutes. At the Australian Open in January, Anisimova saved two match points before ousting defending champion Osaka 4-6, 6-3, 7-6[5] in the third round. Although this match did not go the distance, the 27th seed admitted to feeling the pressure heading into their showdown.

"It was very difficult with a lot of anticipation over the last couple of days," admitted Anisimova. "I was trying not to think about it too much, but going into the match, I did feel like the stress and the nerves a bit, because it is a very tough first round. I'm just happy with how I was able to manage it and get through it."

Despite the uncooperative Parisian weather, Anisimova stuck to her game-plan which enabled her to control the match.

"I would say the conditions were tough today, because of the rain it was very heavy," said the 2019 French Open semifinalist. "But I just was trying to stay aggressive and keep going for my flat shots, because that's what I thought would help me get the win today."

Anisimova will next play qualifier Donna Vekic, whom she previously defeated 7-6(4) 7-6(6) in the 2020 Rome first round, their sole prior encounter.