It’s great to see Naomi Osaka back in contention for a title, as the Japanese star delivered a commanding performance to defeat Anastasija Sevastova at the National Bank Open. The Grand Slam champion showcased her powerful game, cruising to victory with a dominant 6-1, 6-0 win.
In her post-match press conference, Naomi Osaka appeared happy to have reached the quarterfinals of the tournament. She spoke about her performance and the inspiration behind her playing style, highlighting Serena Williams as a major influence. Osaka credited Williams for helping shape key aspects of her game, particularly certain skills she has developed over the years.
A tribute to a legend: Osaka on Serena’s influence
Naomi Osaka is undoubtedly one of the greatest tennis players in Japan’s history. Throughout her career, she has claimed numerous titles, with her victories at two Australian Opens and two U.S. Opens standing out as career highlights. One of the key weapons behind her success has been her powerful serve, which has consistently set her apart on the court.
There, she declared in the press conference about the influence of Serena Williams in her style of playing. “I think for me I just grew up in an era of watching Serena, and she would be down Love 40 and hit four aces. I still think about that sometimes when I play. I also feel like it doesn’t have to be an ace.” She started saying.
“I just have to hit a really good serve and see what happens, because off the baseline, I still think I’m one of the better players,” Naomi Osaka revealed during the press conference. Her comments sparked comparisons between her playing style and that of Serena Williams, highlighting the influence the American legend has had on Osaka’s game.
Memorable clashes between Osaka and Serena
Naomi Osaka has praised Serena Williams as a major influence, but she has also perfected her serve to the point where she was able to defeat the American legend in high-stakes matches. Their encounters have become symbolic moments in women’s tennis, marking a generational shift while honoring the legacy of greatness.
Despite all the finals Osaka has won in the WTA, there is one that is still in the mind of the fans of tennis, and it was her first ever Grand Slam final against Serena Williams at the Arthur Ashe Stadium for the U.S Open.
In that match, the Japanese star showcased her full range of talent, claiming the championship in straight sets with a 6-2, 6-4 victory over the American icon. Her powerful first serve played a crucial role in the win, proving essential in dethroning her serving mentor on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
For now, Osaka is focused on the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open, where she is set to face Ukrainian star Elina Svitolina. The matchup promises a high level of tennis and could present Osaka with another opportunity to advance to a decisive stage in a major tournament.
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