Number one tennis player in the world Naomi Osaka comes through a tough test, defeats Anna Blinkova 64 67(5) 62 to start her title defense U.S. Open.
When she needed it most, Osaka leveled up to play some of the best tennis she’s played since Australia. She faces Bronx champ Magda Linette in the second round.
Osaka: “I don’t think I’ve ever been so nervous in my life. I don’t think I ever really found my rhythm but I just fought as hard as I can.”
Osaka put herself into far too many holes today, but she did actually play well when she needed to. She could face Coco Gauff in the 3rd round if they are both able to beat their next opponents.
