Jasmine Paolini delivered a standout performance in Miami, storming back from a set down to defeat Naomi Osaka and secure her place in the quarterfinals of the WTA 1000 event. The world No.7 triumphed 3-6, 6-4, 6-4 in a thrilling two-hour, 14-minute match, marking her first appearance in the final eight of a tournament this season. She will now face Poland’s Magda Linette, who upset Coco Gauff in straight sets.
The match began with a grueling opening game on Paolini’s serve, lasting 21 points and requiring her to save four break chances. Osaka came out strong, dictating play with powerful groundstrokes and controlling the tempo. Despite an early break back, Paolini couldn’t stop Osaka’s momentum, who sealed the first set with a dominant stretch of three consecutive games.
However, the second set saw a shift in energy. Paolini raised her intensity and immediately broke Osaka’s serve. The Japanese player struggled with her forehand while the Italian grew more confident, holding serve consistently and clinching the set 6-4.
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In the decider, both players held firm until 2-2, when Osaka faltered for the first time on serve. Paolini capitalized, grabbing the break and defending two break points in the following games to stay ahead. Maintaining focus and composure, the Italian closed out the match and earned a hard-fought victory that reaffirms her place among the tour’s elite.
