Naomi Osaka's Clay-Court Comeback Ends in First Round

Naomi Osaka's return to clay courts proved short-lived as she bowed out in the first round of the Open Capfinances Rouen Métropole to Martina Trevisan, 6-4, 6-2. The former world No. 1, who had not played on clay since 2022, struggled to find her footing on the surface, ultimately succumbing to the Italian dirtballer's consistent play.

Osaka's struggles on clay have been well-documented, with her decision to withdraw from the 2021 Roland Garros due to mental health concerns being a notable example. However, the 26-year-old has shown flashes of her top form on the surface, reaching the semifinals of the 2019 Stuttgart Open.

In Rouen, Osaka began her match against Trevisan with an early exchange of breaks. However, the Italian quickly settled into the match, saving five break points and serving out the first set. Trevisan continued to dominate in the second set, breaking Osaka early and holding on to her serve to secure the victory.

Osaka's defeat marks her 23rd loss in tour-level clay matches, with her lone semifinal appearance on the surface coming in Stuttgart in 2019. The result also highlights the challenges she faces in returning to her former dominance, particularly on clay.

Despite the setback, Osaka remains optimistic about her comeback. She is scheduled to compete in the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix next week, where she will face a tougher field that includes world No. 1 Iga Swiatek.

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