The Power Players Progress: Zverev and Sabalenka Sail Through Miami Open
Aryna Sabalenka, who arrived in Miami fresh off a defeat in the Indian Wells final just last week, dominated the first set 6-1 before her opponent, Romanian Ana Bogdan, was forced to retire due to a right thigh injury. The three-time Grand Slam champion Sabalenka will now face American Danielle Collins, the defending Miami champion, who secured a victory over Swiss qualifier Rebeka Masarova in a close- match, 6-4, 3-6, 6-3. Former world number one, Naomi Osaka, showcased her resilience in a tight contest against American wildcard Hailey Baptiste, winning 7-6(6), 3-6, 6-4. Osaka will go on to play Italian sixth seed Jasmine Paolini in the next round, who advanced when Ons Jabeur retired hurt while trailing 4-3 in the opening set due to a left leg injury. Making her return to the tour in January 2024 after a 15-month hiatus, during which she gave birth to her first child, Osaka expressed that her current fitness level surpasses that of 2021 when she clinched her fourth Grand Slam titl...