Osaka Extends Clay Win Streak to Eight at Rome Open

Naomi Osaka continued her impressive form on clay by securing a second consecutive comeback win at the Italian Open, advancing to the round of 16 after defeating Marie Bouzkova 4-6, 6-3, 6-3. Despite losing the first set, Osaka's aggressive play and ability to raise her level mid-match allowed her to dominate the latter sets and extend her clay-court winning streak to eight matches. This follows a similarly dramatic victory in the second round against lucky loser Viktorija Golubic, where Osaka rallied from a set down and saved match points to win 2-6, 7-5, 6-1. Osaka's coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, praised her ability to play at a top level on clay, highlighting her speed and tactical shot-making which have brought her back to form after recent struggles. In the next round, Osaka will face American Peyton Stearns, who recently eliminated Australian Open champion Madison Keys, in a part of the draw that has opened up after the early exit of Iga Swiatek. Osaka's resilience and tactical adjustments demonstrate her determination to win her first WTA 1000 event since 2019 and build on her recent clay success, including last week's Saint-Malo WTA 125 title.