PARIS: Naomi Osaka clinched her inaugural clay victory in two years this Wednesday. Despite the adjustment to the slower surface in preparation for the French Open, the former world number one remains steadfast in her commitment to the power-centric style that propelled her to four Grand Slam titles.
Having returned to competition in January following a 15-month maternity hiatus, Osaka’s formidable baseline play has been her trademark, yet clay has posed challenges for the Japanese star. While her initial clay-court outing this season ended in a first-round defeat to Martina Trevisan at Rouen last week, Osaka rebounded with a commanding 6-4, 6-1 triumph over Greet Minnen at the Madrid Open.
Reflecting on her performance, Osaka expressed satisfaction with her improved movement on the surface, noting her ability to handle forehand slides and counter opponent drop shots. Despite her efforts to adapt to clay, Osaka emphasized the importance of maintaining her signature style, acknowledging the balance between adaptation and staying true to her game’s foundation.
Currently ranked 197th globally, Osaka remains determined to conquer the challenges of clay, aiming for her maiden clay-court tournament victory. As she prepares to face Liudmila Samsonova in Madrid, Osaka humorously contemplates the irony of potentially securing her first post-comeback title on clay.
