Osaka Victorious Over Baptiste, Paolini Next in Miami

Naomi Osaka`s impressive run at the Miami Open continues as she overcame Hailey Baptiste in a three-set battle, winning 7-6 (6), 3-6, 6-4. This victory marks her third in the tournament, matching her personal best, and propels her into a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash.

For the first time this season, the four-time Grand Slam champion is set to compete against a Top 10 player when she faces No. 6 seed Jasmine Paolini on Monday. A win in this upcoming match would equal Osaka’s best performance at a WTA 1000 event since her return from maternity leave 15 months ago, where she reached the quarterfinals in Doha last February.

Baptiste, ranked No. 98, held a break advantage and was serving at 4-3 in the third set when Osaka seized her third break point opportunity. Baptiste attempted a serve and volley on a second serve, but her volley landed wide, leveling the score.

After a comfortable hold, Osaka broke Baptiste`s serve for the decisive fifth time to clinch the match. The contest lasted for 2 hours and 59 minutes, making it the longest women’s match of the tournament and the third-longest in a WTA 1000 event in 2025.

Osaka concluded the match with an impressive 13 aces. Combined with Baptiste’s 9 aces, they totaled 22 aces, the highest combined ace count in any women’s match at the Miami Open this year.

Paolini Advances

Earlier in the day, Paolini secured her place in the Round of 16 after Ons Jabeur retired due to a left leg injury while trailing 4-3.

“She’s such a great person, and it’s sad to see her injured on the court,” Paolini commented afterwards, expressing her hope for Jabeur’s swift recovery.

This victory marks Paolini’s first against a Top 30 player after five previous defeats. Last year was a breakthrough year for the Italian player, highlighted by reaching the finals at Roland Garros and Wimbledon. While last year`s success was unexpected, this year expectations are different.

“In Miami it is [a surprise],” she said with a laugh. “I’m happy to reach the fourth round – I’ve never won two matches here before.”

The upcoming match against Osaka could be a significant challenge. Paolini anticipates a tough match, despite never having played or practiced with Osaka.

“I expect a fast-paced match against Osaka,” Paolini stated. “I’m preparing for big serves, powerful returns, and strong shots. I need to be focused and consistent on every point. It won’t be easy because she’s playing at a very high speed.”