Naomi Osaka Stuns Ostapenko, Storms Into WTA 4th Round at Canada Open
In a powerful return to top-tier tennis, Naomi Osaka showcased her champion instincts as she defeated Jelena Ostapenko in a high-voltage clash at the National Bank Open (Canada Open) to book her spot in the WTA 4th Round. The former world number one, who has been steadily regaining form after a maternity break, delivered one of her most convincing wins of the season, sending a strong message to her critics and competitors alike.
Match Recap: Power vs Precision
Facing off against the ever-aggressive Ostapenko—known for her blistering winners and fearless play—Osaka entered the match as the underdog on paper. However, she turned the tide with her composed court presence, consistent serving, and tactical brilliance.
- Final Score: Osaka def. Ostapenko 6-4, 3-6, 6-2
- Aces: Osaka – 9 | Ostapenko – 4
- Unforced Errors: Osaka – 18 | Ostapenko – 31
- Break Points Converted: Osaka – 4/6 | Ostapenko – 2/7
After splitting the first two sets, Osaka turned up the intensity in the decider, breaking Ostapenko twice and maintaining near-flawless service games to close out the match in just over two hours.
Osaka’s Comeback: Gaining Momentum
Since her return to professional tennis in early 2024 following the birth of her daughter, Naomi Osaka has been gradually building her rhythm on the tour. While results have been mixed, flashes of brilliance were always visible. This victory, however, feels different — it’s not just a win, it’s a statement.
“I’m really proud of the way I stayed calm, especially when she was hitting so aggressively,” Osaka said in the post-match interview.
“It’s been a journey to get here, and every match is helping me rediscover the joy of competing.”
With this win, Osaka has now defeated a top-20 opponent for the first time in over a year, a major confidence booster as she eyes deeper runs in big tournaments.
Ostapenko’s Struggles Continue
For Jelena Ostapenko, it was another case of inconsistency costing her the match. The Latvian, known for her fearless style, once again struggled with unforced errors, particularly in key moments. Despite taking the second set with authority, her rhythm collapsed under Osaka’s calculated aggression in the third.
This loss marks her fourth early-round exit in her last five tournaments, raising questions about her ability to string together deep runs on the hard court circuit this season.
What’s Next for Osaka?
With this win, Osaka advances to the Round of 16, where she’s set to face either Elena Rybakina or Beatriz Haddad Maia, both formidable opponents with different styles. Regardless of the next matchup, Osaka’s performance in this tournament suggests she’s not just here to participate—she’s here to compete and contend.
Analysts have already begun whispering about a potential Grand Slam resurgence, especially with the US Open just around the corner—a tournament where Osaka has already lifted the trophy twice (2018 and 2020).
Fan and Media Reactions: The Queen Is Back?
Social media erupted with praise for Osaka, with fans calling it her “best match in years.” Former players like Billie Jean King and Chris Evert lauded her mental strength and composure, two qualities that defined her ascent to the top of women’s tennis.
Tennis fans, starved of Osaka’s elegance and power combo on the court, are now watching closely as she rebuilds her legacy—one match at a time.
A Match That May Define a New Chapter
Naomi Osaka’s triumph over Jelena Ostapenko at the Canada Open wasn’t just a fourth-round entry—it was a declaration of intent. In defeating a dangerous, top-seeded opponent with authority and poise, she reminded the world why she was once considered the face of modern tennis.
Whether this marks the beginning of a full-fledged comeback remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Naomi Osaka is back—and she’s not done yet.
