From boardroom chic to battling win, Osaka reaches US Open last 16
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Japanese 13th seed Naomi Osaka overcame a persistent Achilles injury and a tense three-set battle to defeat Belgium's Elise Mertens 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 on Saturday, advancing to the U.S. Open fourth round. Showcasing her signature pre-match fashion in a grey checked blazer-hoodie and wide-leg pants, Osaka initially cruised through the first set under the lights of Louis Armstrong Stadium. However, Mertens capitalized on unforced errors and forced a decisive third set, during which Osaka required a medical timeout, massage, and pain relief for her left Achilles. Despite throwing her racket in frustration, Osaka rallied from a break down late in the decider, firing a crucial ace to take a 6-5 lead before sealing the victory with a powerful forehand. Osaka expressed shock at her win and now advances to face Elena Rybakina in the round of 16 at Flushing Meadows.
More context
Timeline
- On June 2025 Persistent Achilles tendon issues began troubling Osaka during grass court season.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Naomi Osaka debuted a grey checked blazer-hoodie walk-on outfit.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Osaka secured a dominant three-game streak to claim the opening set.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Elise Mertens capitalized on unforced errors to capture the second set.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Osaka received a medical timeout and pain medication for her Achilles.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Osaka expressed frustration and threw her racket down during play.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Osaka broke back and fired a crucial ace to lead 6-5.
- On Sep 5, 2026 Osaka clinched the third-set victory 7-5 to seal the match.
- On Sep 7, 2026 Osaka prepares to face Elena Rybakina in the fourth round.
- On Sep 13, 2026 The US Open women's singles tournament concludes with the final match.
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: American tennis fans experience heightened excitement regarding tournament competitiveness. Possible long-term US impact: Increased visibility for athletic fashion trends across U.S. sports media. Most affected groups: Tennis enthusiasts, sports apparel brands, and tournament organizers in New York. Reader priority: Prioritize official tournament updates and verified injury status reports.
Coverage notes
Left: Highlighted athlete mental health struggles and unique fashion choices. Center: Focused strictly on match statistics, injury updates, and tournament progression. Right: Emphasized competitive grit and traditional tournament performance metrics.
Primary report
Reuters published match report on Osaka reaching US Open round of 16.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.

































