Naomi Osaka, a two-time former US Open champion, battled today, surviving her match in three sets. She’s seen as something of a wildcard contender this fortnight, not having won a title since 2021. But after returning from maternity leave in 2024, she’s been building momentum, even beating Aryna Sabalenka at Wimbledon en route to the quarter-finals. Today, Osaka started strong, leading Siniakova 3-1, serving at 40-15. She took that game, her pace simply too much for the Czech to handle.
The Big Wins Keep Rolling
It wasn’t just Osaka bringing the heat. Iga Swiatek absolutely cruised, winning in straight sets. She served for her first set at 5-3, taking it on her second set point when Podoroska hit a return wide. Swiatek started with three holds to love, and even when the set got closer, the eighth seed found a way through. She was skipping to the back of the court, looking up for this and, most importantly, more confident than she has been for much of this year. Fritz and Andreeva also scored straight-set victories.
Early Departures Rock the Bracket
But not everyone advanced. Auger-Aliassime lost in the second round, as did Musetti, who fell to Australia’s Dane Sweeny. Tough breaks for them.
With Osaka fighting and Swiatek radiating confidence, the US Open is shaping up to be epic. What’s next for these powerhouses if they keep this up? You gotta love it.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Guardian.
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