Naomi Osaka’s run at the 2024 Italian Open came to an end on Monday after a close three-set battle against American rising star Peyton Stearns. Stearns edged out the former world No. 1 with a score of 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), continuing Osaka’s struggles on the WTA Tour since her return.
Stearns Reaches Quarterfinals After Thrilling Match
The match lasted a grueling two hours and 43 minutes under the scorching Roman sun. With the win, Peyton Stearns advances to the quarterfinals where she will face either Danielle Collins—who stunned reigning champion Iga Swiatek—or Elina Svitolina.
This isn’t Stearns’ first big win in Rome. She had already made headlines by defeating fifth seed Madison Keys in the previous round, proving she’s one to watch this season.
Osaka’s Comeback Continues to Struggle
Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has yet to regain her top form since returning to tennis last year after a 15-month break to give birth to her daughter. Her comeback has been hampered by injuries and early exits.
She missed the Australian Open due to an abdominal injury and has since faced early-round defeats at Indian Wells and Madrid. Although she recently won a smaller WTA 125 event in Saint-Malo, France, her performance at higher-level tournaments has been underwhelming. Her last notable run was reaching the final in Auckland back in January.
Jannik Sinner Eyes First Rome Title
Later on Monday, Italian fan-favorite and world No. 1 Jannik Sinner will take on lucky loser Jesper de Jong in front of a passionate home crowd. Sinner is aiming to become the first Italian man to win the Rome Masters since Adriano Panatta did it in 1976.
As he builds momentum for the French Open later this month, this match is seen as a key step in his preparation.
Other Matches to Watch
Sinner isn’t the only Italian in action. Matteo Berrettini and Jasmine Paolini will also play on the centre court, giving local fans plenty to cheer for. Meanwhile, women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka will face Marta Kostyuk in what promises to be another exciting clash.
