Raducanu Dazzles in Washington: Crushes Osaka to Charge Into Quarterfinals Showdown with Sakkari
Emma Raducanu produced a commanding performance at the Citi Open in Washington, D.C., defeating four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka 6-4, 6-2 to book her place in the quarterfinals. In one of her most confident displays of the season, Raducanu looked composed and sharp from the very first game, striking the ball cleanly and handling pressure moments with poise.
The 21-year-old Briton set the tone early with aggressive returns and smart court positioning, neutralizing Osaka’s power and rhythm. Raducanu took the opening set 6-4 with a timely break and showed mental strength to hold serve in the crucial final game, especially when Osaka tried to mount a comeback.
The second set saw Raducanu raise her level even further. She dictated play from the baseline, mixing in variety with deep groundstrokes and precise angles that left Osaka on the back foot. Despite a late push from the Japanese star, Raducanu remained unshaken, fending off break points and closing out the match with authority.
This win marks a significant step forward for Raducanu, who has been steadily rebuilding confidence and form following an injury-plagued 2023 season. Her movement, timing, and shot selection were all on point — suggesting she’s turning a corner in her comeback.
With this victory, Raducanu now sets up a tantalizing quarterfinal clash with Maria Sakkari, another top-tier opponent. If today’s performance is anything to go by, Raducanu could be poised for a deep run in Washington — and perhaps a return to the spotlight she once commanded.
