Aryna Sabalenka defeated Naomi Osaka in straight sets during their fourth-round match under the Paris lights, advancing to the French Open quarter-finals.
It was the first women’s night session at Roland-Garros in three years, and world No. 1 Sabalenka recovered from an early dip to win 7‑5, 6‑3.
Having reached the quarter-finals in each of her last 14 Grand Slam events, Sabalenka will meet Russian Diana Shnaider in the last eight.
“She is a remarkable player who plays an aggressive style,” Sabalenka said of Osaka. “I’m pleased with how I was able to re‑apply pressure on her, and it’s wonderful to compete in the night session before the crowd.”
“I’m delighted with my serve and overall satisfied with my performance today.”
Osaka took a 2‑0 advantage after a double fault by Sabalenka, but the Belarusian immediately broke back, winning the serve and moving ahead 6‑5 with a powerful return that Osaka could not return, her backhand hitting the net.
After a gritty hold at 3‑3 in the second set, Sabalenka broke serve to go up 4‑3, finishing the extended rally with a delicate half‑volley.
Osaka, appearing in the fourth round at Roland‑Garros for the first time, could not sustain her energy and lost the remaining games, exiting on Sabalenka’s first match point.
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