Naomi Osaka, unseeded and ranked 134th, gave the world number one and three-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek a run for her money in a thrilling match that ended with Swiatek prevailing 7-6, 1-6, 7-5. Despite her loss, Osaka showcased her resilience and determination, proving that she is still capable of beating the best in the world.
Osaka, who returned to the tour in January after a 15-month layoff and maternity leave, had yet to find the form that led her to four major titles. However, she showed flashes of her brilliance against Swiatek, particularly in the second and third sets, which she dominated.
At one point, Osaka was up 5-2 in the third and soon after served for the match at 5-3. But Swiatek showed the kind of will and fortitude that have led many to compare her to Serena Williams, rolling through four straight games to win.
With the rain pounding down on the roof of Court Philippe Chatrier, the match turned into a kind of battle royale, with the crowd unable to contain their emotions. Osaka’s performance was particularly impressive given that she had been struggling for form in recent months. But on Saturday, she seemed utterly possessed, hitting balls harder and cleaner than ever before.
Osaka may have lost the battle, but she showed the world that she is still a force to be reckoned with. She is back, and she is ready to contend for more major titles.
