WTA Miami Preview: Naomi Osaka vs. Jasmine Paolini

Naomi Osaka

• Background: Osaka has advanced to the fourth round of the Miami Open for the third time in her career. While she cruised past Liudmilla Samsonova in straight sets, she endured marathon battles against Yuliia Starodubtseva and wildcard Hailey Baptiste, the latter lasting nearly three hours.
• Recent Form: Since returning from maternity leave, Osaka has reached three WTA quarterfinals, most recently in Auckland. She arrived in Miami without a win since the Australian Open but has turned things around impressively.
• Strengths and Concerns: Osaka’s fighting spirit and ability to win tough three-setters have been on full display. However, concerns remain about her consistency after long absences from the tour.

Jasmine Paolini

• Background: Paolini is enjoying her first-ever run to the fourth round in Miami. She benefited from a first-round bye, overcame Rebecca Sramkova in straight sets, and advanced past Ons Jabeur via retirement.
• Recent Form: The Italian has struggled to find form since reaching the finals of Roland-Garros and Wimbledon last season. She is aiming for her first quarterfinal appearance of the year.
• Strengths and Concerns: While she has the tools to compete at a high level, her recent performances suggest she’s still working to regain momentum from her standout 2023 season.

Head-to-Head: First meeting (0-0).

Key Considerations

• Current Form: Osaka has been tested more thoroughly en route to the fourth round, while Paolini had a smoother path.
• Match Toughness: Osaka’s ability to grind through tight matches may give her a mental edge.
• Top-10 Wins: Osaka recently defeated Jelena Ostapenko, showing she can still challenge the WTA elite.

Prediction

Naomi Osaka to win in three sets. Despite Paolini’s higher ranking, Osaka’s grit, experience, and ability to rise to the occasion suggest she has the tools to reach her first Miami quarterfinal since 2022. Expect a tight match, but Osaka’s big-match pedigree should prevail.

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