Osaka Beats Stephens, Korda Plays Nadal At Indian Wells
Indian Wells
March 11, 2022
Naomi Osaka defeated Sloane Stephens in a three-set thriller in blustery conditions at Indian Wells.
It was the opening-day blockbuster everyone looked forward to in the desert – and it didn’t disappoint.
First blood went to Stephens who seemed to adapt to the wind earlier than her opponent.
But once Osaka started to hit through the ball with extra venom she would not be diverted.
The Japanese superstar won 3-6, 6-1, 6-2 and knew she had been in a sporting battle.
‘I felt like I was fighting for my life,’ said Osaka. ‘I was playing against her and I was playing against the wind. It was crazy.
‘I just kept thinking she was going through the same circumstances as me, so I just had to will myself to try as hard as I could.’
That’s the passionate fight we expect to see from Osaka at Wimbledon 2022.
She has struggled on the grass in the past and admits she has never fully adapted her game to that beautiful and historic surface.
But if Naomi can adapt to high wins at Indian Wells, she can adapt to the manicured lawns of Wimbledon during a mild British summer.
Osaka will be desperate to show her class at Wimbledon 2022 and fulfil her potential.
Fans at the All England Club will be hoping she shows the sort of blistering stroke play she did in the last two sets against Stephens.
When she is in the groove, Naomi really is a wonderful sight to behold.
Osaka in full flow this British summer! We can’t wait!
Meanwhile there is a second early blockbuster to enjoy at Indian Wells tomorrow.
American hope Sebastian Korda defeated Thanasi Kokkinakis 6-3, 6-4 to set up a scintillating showdown with Rafael Nadal.
That’s going to be a super-tough test of youthful Korda’s technique and determination.
But Korda is improving every year and Nadal will know he has a fight on his hands.
That’s won’t worry Rafa, though. He can’t stop winning in 2022, however intense the contest.
It was only a few weeks ago that Nadal became the greatest tennis player of all time by reaching 21 Grand Slam titles.
Could Nadal win Wimbledon 2022 as well?
It would be incredible to celebrate such a wonderful champion in such epic style in Centre Court’s Centenary Year.
Who doesn’t love Rafael Nadal?
He is a such gentleman and he shows the humility in the world.
He is also a supreme warrior with the spirit of a gladiator.
We should cherish every moment remaining to Rafael Nadal at the very top.
Will you be there at Wimbledon 2022 to see him try for yet another Grand Slam title?
We can help you make your dream come true.