Angelique Kerber Advances in Paris 2024

Kerber Defeats Osaka in Straight Sets

Paris, France (AP) - July 27, 2024

Angelique Kerber, the former world No. 1, has advanced to the second round of the women's singles at Paris 2024 with a straight-sets victory over her fellow former world No. 1, Naomi Osaka.

Kerber, a three-time Grand Slam champion, won 7-5, 6-3 in a match that lasted one hour and 42 minutes. The victory extends Kerber's winning streak over Osaka to three matches.

In the second round, Kerber will face the winner of the match between Elena Rybakina and Belinda Bencic.

Osaka, who was playing in her first tournament since withdrawing from the French Open due to a mental health issue, said she was happy to be back on the court.

"I'm just happy to be here," Osaka said. "I'm still trying to find my rhythm, but I'm getting there."

Despite the loss, Osaka said she is looking forward to the rest of the season.

"I'm going to take a few days off and then start preparing for the US Open," Osaka said. "I'm excited to see what the rest of the year holds."