Naomi Osaka`s impressive run at the Miami Open continued on Saturday with a victory over wild card Hailey Baptiste, winning 7-6 (6), 3-6, 6-4. This marks her third win in the tournament, equaling her personal best, and arranges an exciting Round of 16 encounter.
For the first time this season, the four-time Grand Slam champion is set to compete against a Top 10 player, facing No. 6 seed Jasmine Paolini on Monday. A victory here would match Osaka’s best performance at a WTA 1000 event since her return from maternity leave 15 months ago, where she reached the quarterfinals in Doha last February.
Baptiste, ranked No. 98, had a break advantage and was serving at 4-3 in the third set when Osaka secured her crucial break point. Baptiste attempted a serve and volley on a second serve, but her volley missed wide, leveling the score.
After a comfortable hold, Osaka broke Baptiste`s serve for the fifth time to clinch the match. The match was the longest women’s singles match of the tournament so far.
Osaka served 13 aces in total. Combined with Baptiste`s 9 aces, they reached a total of 22 aces in the match, the highest combined in any women`s match in the tournament to date.
Paolini Progresses
Earlier in the day, Jasmine Paolini advanced to the Round of 16 after Ons Jabeur retired due to a left leg injury while trailing 4-3.
Paolini expressed her sympathy, saying, “She’s such a great person and to see her injured on the court, I hope she’s going to be back soon.”
This victory was Paolini’s first against a Top 30 player after five previous defeats. Last year was remarkable for the Italian player, highlighted by reaching the finals at both Roland Garros and Wimbledon. While last year`s success was unexpected, this year is different.
“In Miami it is,” she chuckled. “Happy to reach the fourth round – I’ve never won two matches here before.”
The upcoming match could be a significant challenge. Paolini is prepared for what to expect from Osaka, despite never having played or practiced with her before.
Paolini anticipates “a fast match” against Osaka. “I’m expecting powerful serves, strong returns, and big hits, of course. I believe I need to be focused every point, consistent and solid. It won’t be easy because she’s playing with great speed.”
Rupert Caldwell