If the top half of the Australian Open draw could be accused of lacking notable drama so far, Naomi Osaka ensured she at least provided some fireworks. The big names playing on day three in Melbourne all progressed without much difficulty on Wednesday, and while the start of the second round saw few shocks, it means a meeting between defending champion Osaka and tournament favourite Ashleigh Barty remains alive.
Osaka served a reminder of why that promises to be a tantalising last-16 match with a spectacular first-set performance in her win over Madison Brengle, before having to dig deep and answer some testing questions in closing out the 6-0 6-4 victory. The 24-year-old was playing just her fifth match since September but a stunning display of ball-striking and an eye-catching array of winners in 20 dominant first-set minutes showed little sign of rust.
