Naomi Osaka Continues Clay-Court Progress with Rome Fourth Round Berth

Naomi Osaka Continues Clay-Court Progress with Rome Fourth Round Berth

Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, has made a strong start to her clay-court season, reaching the fourth round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome. Osaka, who has struggled on clay in the past, has credited a change in mindset and a focus on watching top players like Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz for her improved performance.

After a 6-3, 6-3 victory over Daria Kasatkina, Osaka admitted that she still needs more experience on clay to earn the nickname “Clayomi.” However, she is confident that she is making progress and is grateful to be back on the court after giving birth to her daughter in 2023.

Osaka’s win over Kasatkina, a 2022 Roland Garros semifinalist, was her second Top 20 victory on clay this season. She had previously defeated Porsche Tennis Grand Prix finalist Marta Kostyuk. Osaka’s success in Rome is a testament to her hard work and determination to improve on her least favorite surface.

In the past, Osaka has struggled to adjust to the slower pace and higher bounce of clay courts. However, she has spent a significant amount of time practicing and studying the game on clay. She has also been watching videos of top players like Nadal and Alcaraz to learn how to play the surface more effectively.

Osaka’s next opponent in Rome is Zheng Qinwen, who reached the final of the 2024 Australian Open. Zheng is a big hitter with a powerful forehand and backhand. Osaka will need to be at her best to defeat Zheng and reach her second WTA 1000 quarterfinal of the season.

Naomi Osaka Finds Peace on Clay, Targets Deep Run in Rome

Naomi Osaka Finds Peace on Clay, Targets Deep Run in Rome

Naomi Osaka’s transformation on clay has been remarkable. Once a surface that caused her immense stress, it now seems to bring her a sense of peace. This newfound serenity has translated into impressive performances, including a straight-sets victory over Marta Kostyuk at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia.

Osaka’s mental shift is evident in her relaxed demeanor on and off the court. She attributes this to the unconditional love of her daughter, Shai. “No matter what happens on the court, nothing will change for me off the court,” she said. “My daughter will still love me.”

This positive mindset has also been fueled by a training bloc in Mallorca, where Osaka observed the likes of Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Andrey Rublev. Inspired by their aggressive play, she has resolved to swing fully and avoid regrets.

While Osaka acknowledges the challenges of clay, she is determined to adapt her game. She plans to incorporate more spin and rotation into her shots, believing it will make her shots heavier and more effective.

Her next opponent, Daria Kasatkina, presents a different challenge. The Russian is a clay-court specialist with a wide array of spins and slices. Osaka is aware of the threat Kasatkina poses, but she remains humble and eager to learn.

Despite the lingering stress, Osaka’s newfound peace and determination suggest that she is capable of making a deep run at the Foro Italico. Her powerful shots and positive mindset could prove to be a formidable combination on the slow surface.

Yulia Putintseva: Tennis Star and Vlogging Sensation

Yulia Putintseva: Tennis Star and Vlogging Sensation

Yulia Putintseva, the rising star of women’s tennis, has emerged as a captivating personality both on and off the court. Known for her dry wit and candid opinions, Putintseva has become a fan favorite through her appearances on Daria Kasatkina’s YouTube series, “What The Vlog?”

Putintseva believes that Kasatkina’s vlog provides a unique glimpse into the lives of tennis players, showcasing the challenges and sacrifices they face beyond the spotlight. She criticizes the Netflix series “Break Point” for its lack of authenticity and over-dramatization.

“They didn’t even invite me; how could it be good?” Putintseva quipped. “I watched one episode with Kyrgios, and the rest was so bad, so dramatic.”

Putintseva also expresses reservations about the romantic drama “Challengers,” starring Zendaya. She questions the casting choice, stating that Zendaya’s appearance does not align with the physicality of a professional tennis player.

Despite her skepticism towards certain tennis-themed media, Putintseva holds a fondness for the 2004 romcom “Wimbledon.” She appreciates its portrayal of the sport and its setting in the historic All England Club.

Putintseva’s recent resurgence on the WTA Tour has propelled her into the spotlight. She has reached consecutive quarterfinals at the Miami Open and Mutua Madrid Open, cutting her ranking in half in just three months. This success has earned her a seeding at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, the tournament that inspired her favorite film.

“I want to stay as long as possible here,” Putintseva said. “I love the history of Rome so much. I love Italy in general: there’s so much culture and so many great places to walk.”

Putintseva’s love for Rome extends beyond its historical significance. She praises the city’s architecture, art, and cuisine, particularly its delectable gelato.

As she prepares to face Sloane Stephens in the second round of the Italian Open, Putintseva remains focused on her own journey. She embraces the opportunity to be the star of her own Roman Holiday, showcasing her talent and personality on the grand stage of tennis.

Kasatkina's Vlog Features Azarenka, Wozniacki, and Badosa

Kasatkina’s Vlog Features Azarenka, Wozniacki, and Badosa

Daria Kasatkina and her girlfriend Natalia Zabiiako have released the latest episode of their joint vlog, which features a candid interview with former world No. 1 Victoria Azarenka. The episode, which Kasatkina has declared the “best … so far!” delves into the world of clay-court tennis and reveals a humorous anecdote about Roger Federer.

Azarenka, who had previously invited herself onto the vlog, shared her insights on clay-court play and recounted a funny story from the Mutua Madrid Open in 2012, when the tournament experimented with blue clay. She also revisited her famous match against Kasatkina at the 2020 Internazionali BNL d’Italia, where she comforted Kasatkina after she rolled her ankle in the first-set tiebreak.

“After this injury, you managed to recover and play so quickly! People don’t know this! These are the stories that need to be told!” Azarenka exclaimed. “You need to tell people such life stories. They can help children, for example, because they don’t know.”

The episode also features a visit from Caroline Wozniacki, who shared a video of their memorable ride from the airport to the tournament’s player hotel. Jennifer Brady, who recently underwent a second knee surgery, provided an update on her recovery while meeting Kasatkina for breakfast on crutches. Paula Badosa took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, showing a photo of herself and Kasatkina from their youth.

“In Facebook, I have you as my sister … from when we were 13 years old!” Badosa said.

The nearly 90-minute episode offers a glimpse into the lives of these tennis stars, providing insights into their on-court experiences and personal journeys.

Daria Kasatkina's Oscars Commentary Sparks Debate Among Tennis Fans

Daria Kasatkina’s Oscars Commentary Sparks Debate Among Tennis Fans

Daria Kasatkina, the world’s No. 12 tennis player, has become a vocal commentator on the Oscars, sharing her opinions on the awards show via live commentary on X, formerly Twitter. Kasatkina’s commentary has sparked discussions among her followers, with some agreeing with her views and others expressing differing opinions.

Kasatkina’s support for Emma Stone, who won Best Actress for her performance in “Poor Things,” was met with enthusiasm. However, she expressed disappointment with “Oppenheimer,” which won seven awards including Best Picture and Best Director. Kasatkina questioned the film’s acclaim, prompting mixed reactions from her followers.

One comment that drew Kasatkina’s ire was a suggestion that she should “stick with tennis.” She responded by questioning why her interest in other areas should be limited by her profession.

Other members of the tennis community also shared their thoughts on the Oscars. Former doubles world No. 1 Rennae Stubbs and eight-time Grand Slam singles champion Chris Evert debated the Best Actor award, with Evert supporting Bradley Cooper for his performance in “Maestro” and Stubbs praising Cillian Murphy’s performance in “Oppenheimer.”

Kasatkina’s commentary highlights the growing popularity of tennis players engaging with fans and sharing their perspectives on non-tennis-related topics. Her willingness to express her opinions and engage with her followers has further solidified her connection with the tennis community and beyond.

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