In what promises to be a must-watch first-round matchup at the Toronto tournament, Naomi Osaka is set to clash against Ons Jabeur. The four-time Grand Slam champion’s tough luck with draws continues as she prepares to face off against the talented Jabeur, making her return to the National Bank Open after missing out last year due to giving birth.
At 26 years old, Osaka will have her work cut out for her right from the start of the hard-court tournament this summer. Jabeur, a three-time Grand Slam finalist, is known for her tricky playing style and is sure to give Osaka a run for her money in their upcoming match. The clash between these two formidable players will not only draw attention from fans but also shine a spotlight on the first-round action in Toronto.
This showdown will mark only the second-ever meeting between Osaka and Jabeur, with the former coming out on top in their previous encounter at the 2021 Australian Open. Osaka’s victory over Jabeur en route to winning the title demonstrated her ability to navigate tough opponents, but facing off against Jabeur once again will present a fresh challenge for the Japanese superstar.
Reflecting on her recent matches, Osaka opened up about the need to “relearn” how to win against the best players in the game. Following a tough draw against Angelique Kerber in the Paris Olympics first round, the former world No. 1 admitted that she may have to improve her game to compete at the highest level once again.
“I guess I need to learn how to win again. Maybe that’s something I forgot how to do. Maybe I have to keep playing matches against really good players to relearn that,” Osaka said. Her self-awareness and determination to regain her winning form will undoubtedly be put to the test in her upcoming match against Jabeur.
As the match progressed, Osaka faced a setback in the form of a leg injury, prompting her to receive treatment and take a painkiller. Despite the physical challenge, Osaka’s resilience and competitive spirit will be on full display as she vies for a victory against the formidable Jabeur in their highly anticipated first-round clash.
