Naomi Osaka Advances to Auckland Quarterfinals After Six-Month Drought

The four-time Grand Slam champion overcomes early nerves and a rain delay to secure a straight-sets victory at the ASB Classic.

Naomi Osaka defeated Austria's Julia Grabher 7-5, 6-3 to reach her first WTA quarterfinal since June 2024.
Osaka's strong serving performance included five aces and an 80% win rate on her second serve, while saving both break points she faced.
A rain delay during the tight first set allowed Osaka to regroup and consult her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, for strategic adjustments.
The ASB Classic serves as a warm-up event for the Australian Open, where Osaka is a two-time champion and will compete starting January 12.
Osaka, ranked 57th, has shown promising form in her return to the tour after maternity leave and a back injury that ended her 2024 season early.