The first round of action in both Osaka and Ningbo continued to showcase exciting tennis matches, featuring prominent players such as Leylah Fernandez, Clara Tauson, and Emma Raducanu.
In an exhilarating final match of the day, Botic van de Zandschulp delivered an upset against rising star Joao Fonseca, securing a 7-5, 7-6(2) victory in Brussels. This win adds to the success of many players as they advance in the tournament. Matteo Berrettini, who has struggled recently, bounced back to claim a convincing 6-4, 6-2 win over compatriot Giulio Zeppieri in Stockholm.
On the sibling rivalry front, Elias Ymer triumphed over his brother Mikael in Stockholm with a score of 6-2, 7-6(4). Meanwhile, Francisco Comesana also secured a place in the second round of Brussels by defeating veteran David Goffin with a sturdy performance, finishing 7-6(5), 6-4.
Grand Slam champion Marin Cilic moved forward in Stockholm with a solid 7-5, 6-3 victory against Norway’s Nicolai Budkov Kjaer. Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard had a tougher battle but ultimately progressed after defeating Emil Ruusuvuori, 7-6(4), 6-7(5), 6-4.
In Almaty, Brandon Nakashima earned his spot in the next round after a 7-6(5), 6-2 win over Hamad Medjedovic, highlighting a day of competitive matches across various locations.
In contrast, Emma Raducanu faced an early exit in Ningbo, falling in her first-round match against home favorite Lin Zhu, with the final score of 3-6, 6-4, 6-1. Raducanu struggled with an injury during the final set, reflecting ongoing challenges for the former US Open champion.
Meanwhile, Dayana Yastremska progressed by defeating Canada’s 19-year-old Victoria Mboko with a score of 6-3, 7-6(3). Elise Mertens pushed through to the last 16 in Osaka with a hard-fought 7-6(5), 6-3 victory over Cristina Bucsa. Czech rising star Tereza Valentova also shone in Osaka, dominating Alexandra Eala in a 6-1, 6-2 match.
In other highlights, eighth seed Liudmila Samsonova secured her advancement in Ningbo with a 6-2, 6-4 victory against qualifier Hanyu Guo, while Clara Tauson’s struggles continued with a three-set loss to Ajla Tomljanovic.
With thrilling matches and notable upsets, the tournaments in Osaka and Ningbo promise fans a captivating display of tennis as players strive to advance in their respective competitions. As the action unfolds, the resilience of the players and dramatic outcomes provide a testament to the unpredictable nature of the sport.