March 29, (THEWILL) – Naomi Osaka advanced to the Miami Open quarterfinals with a convincing win over Alison Riske.
Former world number one Osaka dominated from the baseline, striking 40 winners on her way to a 6-3 6-4 victory.
Osaka, who had a walkover in her previous match after defeating 13th seed Angelique Kerber in the second round, got off to a fast start. After saving four break points in the first game, Osaka broke in the second to go up 2-0.
The four-time Grand Slam champion was hitting with far more authority and force than Riske, who was unable to find her feet in the set.
At the start of the second set, the American broke Osaka for the first time in the contest. However, after falling behind 2-0, Osaka won four games in a row to reclaim control of the match.
Riske maintained her composure and pushed till the end, but she was unable to break back as Osaka completed the victory with her second match point.
Speaking after her victory, Osaka said: “It’s really funny for me because last year I made the quarters too after I won the Australian Open and I wasn’t that grateful, I kind of expected to win.
“But I am in the same position this year and this is one of the funnest times of my life so I’m really grateful.”
Osaka will then face another American, Danielle Collins, in her effort to win the WTA 1000 title for the first time.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
