Belgian Star Defeats Naomi Osaka In Second Round

Elise Mertens Rebounds to Advance in Toronto

Belgian Star Defeats Naomi Osaka in Second Round

Elise Mertens, the world number 35, cruised through to the second round of the WTA tournament in Toronto on Thursday. The Belgian player defeated four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka in a relatively easy match.

Osaka Comeback Falls Short

Osaka, who had been struggling with form and injuries this season, put up a fight but ultimately came up short against Mertens. The Belgian took the first set 6-4 before Osaka fought back to claim the second 6-3. However, Mertens regained control in the deciding set, winning 6-1.

Mertens Prepares for US Open

Mertens will now face Katie Volynets in the second round as she continues her preparations for the US Open. The Belgian has been in impressive form this season, reaching the semi-finals at the Australian Open and the quarter-finals at Wimbledon.

Osaka, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from her recent setbacks. The Japanese star has struggled to find her best form since withdrawing from the French Open in May. She will now head to Cincinnati for the Western & Southern Open before the US Open begins on August 29.