Samsonova Outlasts Osaka in Berlin Clash of Champions
So, here's what's buzzing in the tennis world right now—Liudmila Samsonova, the 2021 Berlin Open champion, just pulled off a gritty, come-from-behind win against none other than Naomi Osaka in the opening round of the 2025 Berlin Tennis Open. If you're following Osaka's comeback journey post-maternity, you know each match carries weight. And this one? It was a battle.
Osaka came out strong. She looked sharp early, taking the first set 6-3 with that signature aggressive style and a flurry of clean winners—10 in that set alone. But Samsonova, ranked No. 20 in the world, didn’t flinch. The Russian rallied with impressive mental toughness, finding her rhythm just in time to turn things around.
The turning point? Late in the second set. Osaka had three break points at 5-5, a golden opportunity to serve for the match. But Samsonova dug deep and served her way out of trouble with clutch precision. That hold pushed the set into a tiebreak, and Samsonova seized the moment—snatching it 7-6(3) with a series of aggressive forehands and cool composure.
Also Read:- Bryan Cranston’s Hilariously Gross 'SNL' Sketch That Never Made It On Air
- Joao Pedro Transfer Saga Heats Up as London Becomes His Top Priority
In the decider, it was Samsonova again who held her nerve. She broke Osaka’s serve at 3-2, courtesy of a powerful backhand return, and despite facing two break points while serving for the match at 5-4, she closed it out. Final score: 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-4.
What makes this match even more interesting is the recent history between these two. They had never played each other before 2024, but this Berlin showdown marked their fourth meeting in just 15 months. With this win, Samsonova leveled their head-to-head record at 2-2.
Now, Samsonova is set to face No. 3 seed and defending champion Jessica Pegula in a second-round clash that’s shaping up to be a heavyweight duel. Pegula won this event last year, her first grass-court title, so this will be a real test.
For Osaka, it’s her second straight first-round exit following her loss to Paula Badosa at Roland Garros. While she continues to search for rhythm on the grass, it’s clear she’s getting closer. That first set today was a reminder of the power and poise that made her a four-time Grand Slam champion.
On another note, World No. 5 Zheng Qinwen had to withdraw due to a neck injury, paving the way for lucky loser Ashlyn Krueger to step into the draw and face Elena Rybakina—a rematch from Miami where Krueger pulled off a huge upset.
So yeah, Berlin is already bringing the drama. And if this opening round is any indication, we’re in for a thrilling grass-court season.
Read More:
0 Comments