Naomi Osaka’s impressive run at the Italian Open concluded on Monday with a defeat by Zheng Qinwen in the last 16 round at the Foro Italico. Despite her promising start, the seventh seed Zheng proved to be too much for the four-time grand slam champion, denying her a spot in the quarter-finals.
Following her victory over Daria Kasatkina on Saturday, Osaka appeared to be in great shape, even making light of the “Clayomi” nickname that some fans had given her due to her struggles on clay courts. However, the challenges she faced on this surface resurfaced in her match against Zheng, who dominated the game from the outset and ultimately emerged victorious with a 6-2 6-4 win.
Zheng took control right from the start, breaking Osaka’s serve in the opening game. Despite Osaka’s efforts, Zheng won seven consecutive games, turning the tables from being 2-1 down in the first set to leading 2-0 in the second. Zheng displayed a stellar performance, converting all four of her break points and excelling in first-serve points, ultimately setting up a quarter-final clash with either Coco Gauff or Paula Badosa.
Osaka’s performance in Italy had been impressive, especially on a surface that has historically posed challenges for her. However, her journey was cut short by Zheng, who achieved her fourth WTA 1000 quarter-final. Zheng’s accomplishment is noteworthy, as she has become just the second Asian player, after Osaka, to reach multiple quarter-finals on both hardcourts and clay at this level before turning 23.
It was a disappointing end to an encouraging run for Osaka, but her talents and determination on the court are undeniable. As she continues to hone her skills, her future performances are sure to captivate and inspire tennis enthusiasts around the world.