Raducanu's Dominant Win Propels Her to Quarter-Finals

British world No. 3 Emma Raducanu showcased her resilience and skill by defeating four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka in straight sets (6-4, 6-2) at the Washington Open, securing her place in the quarter-finals. The 2021 US Open singles titleist followed her first-round upset of Ukrainian seventh seed Marta Kostyuk with a commanding performance, overcoming Osaka in just 72 minutes.

Raducanu’s victory came after a hard-fought first set, where she converted her lone break point in the fifth game to seize control. The 21-year-old then surged ahead in the second set, breaking Osaka’s serve immediately and maintaining her lead despite a late challenge. A pivotal moment arrived when Osaka served to extend the match, but Raducanu ultimately clinched the second set with a 6-2 scoreline after three match points.

However, the day was less successful for British men’s tennis. Cameron Norrie, the nation’s second-ranked player, fell to American 14th seed Brandon Nakashima in a thrilling three-set clash (7-6, 6-3). Nakashima, who had not defeated Norrie since 2020, broke his serve twice in the deciding set to advance. Dan Evans, the 2023 Washington Open champion, also exited in the last 16, losing to France’s Corentin Moutet in a tense encounter (6-2, 7-6).

Raducanu will next face wildcard entry Maria Sakkari, who ousted second-seeded American Emma Navarro. The British player’s focus will shift to doubles later in the day, where she partners Elena Rybakina in the quarter-finals against Giuliana Olmos and Aldila Sutjiadi.

“It’s always a challenge to beat someone of Naomi’s caliber, but I felt confident from the start,” Raducanu said, reflecting on her victory.

The Washington Open continues to draw global attention, with Raducanu’s progress marking a significant milestone in her career following her 2021 US Open triumph. Meanwhile, Norrie and Evans’ exits highlight the fierce competition in the men’s draw.

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#Emma Raducanu #Washington Open #Naomi Osaka #Cameron Norrie #6-2) at the Washington Open #the nation’s second-ranked player #6-3). Nakashima #who had not defeated Norrie since 2020 #the 2023 Washington Open champion #also exited in the last 16 #but I felt confident from the start #” Raducanu said