Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka started 2025 with a statement, defeating Julia Grabher 7-5, 6-3 on Wednesday to secure her spot in the quarterfinals of the Auckland WTA tournament.
In a match marked by gusty winds and a rain delay, Osaka showcased her resilience and focus, holding serve throughout and breaking Grabher once in each set.
The victory marks her second quarterfinal appearance in Auckland, the first since her 2017 debut.
“She was a really tough opponent for me to play against,” Osaka said post-match. “I felt I just had to concentrate on myself and try not to be as nervous as I felt.”
Osaka credited her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, for his advice during the match. Mouratoglou, known for his long partnership with Serena Williams, recently joined Osaka’s team.
“I just tried to focus on my bullet points and go out swinging if I had to,” she added.
The former world No. 1 showed no signs of the back injury that ended her 2024 season at the China Open. Her powerful first serve proved instrumental, winning 80% of points when in play, and her aggressive forehand dictated the pace.
The first set remained on serve until Osaka broke Grabher in the 12th game, shortly after a rain delay. In the second set, she broke in the sixth game to take a commanding lead and closed out the match on her first match point.
The Auckland tournament serves as a warm-up for the Australian Open, starting January 12. With notable withdrawals from Emma Raducanu and Elise Mertens due to injuries, Osaka appears poised for a strong run against a less crowded field.
Osaka will look to continue her momentum as she chases her first title in Auckland and prepares for another Grand Slam campaign.
