Naomi Osaka Secures First Win Since January at Miami Open
The four-time Grand Slam champion overcame a tough start to defeat Yuliia Starodubtseva, advancing to the second round in a pivotal step for her 2025 comeback.
- Naomi Osaka defeated Yuliia Starodubtseva 3-6, 6-4, 6-3 in the first round of the Miami Open, marking her first match win since January.
- Osaka rallied from a set down and a 4-2 deficit in the second set, showcasing resilience and improved fitness in a two-hour, 28-minute battle.
- The victory comes after a disappointing first-round loss at Indian Wells, which Osaka called the 'worst match' of her career.
- Osaka credited her preparation in Miami, including a focused training week, for helping her recover her form and stamina.
- She next faces 24th seed Liudmila Samsonova in the second round, aiming to build on the momentum as she continues her return to elite competition.