Osaka and Jovic advance to US Open fourth round
Naomi Osaka overcame Elise Mertens in three sets, while 18-year-old Iva Jovic defeated Alexandra Eala to set up a meeting with Coco Gauff.
Naomi Osaka and Iva Jovic have reached the US Open women’s singles fourth round after hard-fought victories on Saturday.
Osaka defeated 23rd seed Elise Mertens 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, recovering from a break down in the deciding set before sealing the match with a late ace and an attacking forehand. The two-time US Open champion will next face either second seed Elena Rybakina or Yuliia Starodubtseva.
Sky Sports reported that Osaka took a medical timeout during the deciding set, but the nature and severity of any issue were not reported. Osaka said she had been “shaky” during the match but was pleased to have another opportunity at the tournament.
Jovic, an 18-year-old American, beat close friend Alexandra Eala of the Philippines 7-5, 3-6, 7-5. Jovic fought back after trailing 4-2 in the final set to secure her place in the last 16.
The result sets up an all-American fourth-round meeting with Coco Gauff, who advanced earlier by defeating Cristina Bucsa. Jovic and Eala had previously played doubles together during US Open Fan Week.
