Osaka vs. Sabalenka was the match of the day at the US Open (at least before Federer’s dismissal).
The Japanese and the Belarussian are both heavy hitters, and at 20 years of age, they are among the biggest prospects of the WTA. They were expected to engage in a fierce battle in the 4th round, and they didn’t disappoint.
The contests became an intriguing thriller that was resolved only in the 3rd set. After Aryna and Naomi exchanged the first 2 sets, they started a massive fight in the decider. It was Sabalenka to get the first break in the 3rd game (2-1), but Osaka stormed back soon after to break her opponent in the following game (2-2). That was a crucial moment that changed the dynamic of the match. Osaka dropped just 2 points in her next 3 service games while Aryna was always struggling to hold.
After saving 3 consecutive break points in the 6th game, Sabalenka surrendered in the final game after saving 3 straight match points on serve. Unfortunately, everything ended with a double fault. The final score was 6-3 2-6 6-4
How experience helped. OSAKA
Soon after the match, Naomi explained how her experience helped to win this match.
The Japanese revealed
“For once in my life, I actually think that I was the player with more experience, which is very odd for me to say. But I know that she just sort of recently started coming onto the Grand Slams and stuff.
I don’t know; I feel like there were moments that I kind of knew what to do. Maybe since she’s so young…” she trailed off, perhaps realizing she and Sabalenka are currently the same age.
She was a little bit hesitant. I feel like I learned a lot the match I played here two years ago, which people keep bringing up. I’m grateful that I had that experience.”
Next. Vs. Tsurenko
Naomi will face Lesya Tsurenko in the quarters. They have never played each other so far. The Japanese is the favorite to get to the final 4.
| IN THE QUARTERS |
| Embed from Getty Images |
