WTA Cincinnati: Naomi Osaka prevents opening bankruptcy against Coco Gauff
Naomi Osaka was able to prevent an early end in the second round of the WTA 1000 event from Cincinnati. The Japanese defeated Coco Gauff after a set deficit with 4: 6, 6: 3 and 6: 4.
by Michael Rothschädl
last edit:
Aug 18, 2021, 08:32 pm
For a long time it looked as if Cori Gauff could cause a sensation against the number two of the tournament. The 17-year-old American made a strong start and managed the break towards the end of the first set, which Gauff was able to transport to win the set 6-4. And in the second round it was initially the youngster who was able to put pinpricks - Gauff put in another break.
This time, however, the favorite from Japan - who previously made headlines in Ohio primarily off the field - was able to counter: Osaka managed the rebreak immediately and now found its way into the match better and better. The logical consequence: The second round went 6: 3 to Naomi Osaka, who was now the better player on the field. That was also expressed right at the beginning of the third decisive set, the Japanese managed the early break in the first game.
Osaka with a promising ending
The world number two could not be missed: Osaka now acted significantly better form and at her first tournament on the WTA tour since the French Open, at which she had sensationally withdrawn from the tournament, never seemed to be able to play this match still give out of hand.
After a little less than two hours, the Japanese finally made the 4: 6, 6: 3 and 6: 4 success perfect. It is also Osaka's first victory since the bitter end at the Olympic Games in their home country.
Kerber beats Svitolina
Karolina Muchova, Elena Rybakina and Angelique Kerber were also able to surprise on Wednesday. The latter bowled the number four of the tournament and newly crowned bronze medalist from Tokyo Elina Svitolina in three high-class sets from the tournament .
Rybakina, on the other hand, clearly had the upper hand against Elise Mertens from Belgium, Karolina Muchova suddenly stopped Bianca Andreescu's title defense. Petra Kvitova, however, defeated Veronika Kudermetova as expected.