Paula Badosa from Spain is set to face Japan’s Naomi Osaka in her opening match at the Rome Open. Osaka made a strong statement in her previous match, defeating Italy’s Sara Errani in straight sets with scores of 6-2 and 6-3, in just over an hour.
Osaka, currently ranked 48th in the world and a recent champion at the WTA 125 in Saint Malo, has been on a six-match winning streak on clay courts. She poses a significant challenge for Badosa, who is ranked 9th globally. Badosa previously missed the Madrid Open due to a chronic back injury but has positive memories of the Rome tournament, having reached the round of 16 last year before falling to Coco Gauff in three sets.
In other action, Argentine Tomás Etcheverry, ranked 51st, was eliminated in his first match at the Masters 1000 in Rome by Serbia’s Laslo Djere, who won decisively with scores of 6-3 and 6-2. However, it was a more favorable day for other Argentine players, including Francisco Comesaña, Camilo Ugo Carabelli, Román Andrés Burruchaga, Francisco Cerúndolo, and Sebastián Báez, who advanced directly to the second round.
This matchup between Badosa and Osaka is highly anticipated, showcasing two players with strong competitive spirits. Both players are looking to make their mark in this prestigious tournament, providing fans with an exciting match to look forward to.