Miami Open 2024: Andy Murray, Naomi Osaka breeze into second round

In a gripping encounter at the Miami Open, Andy Murray showcased resilience and skill to overcome Matteo Berrettini in a three-set thriller, marking a significant moment in his season.

The match concluded with scores of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 in favour of Murray. This win propelled Murray into the second round of the tournament, a stage he has been striving to surpass after early exits in his initial four tournaments of the season, including the Australian Open.

The match began with Berrettini, returning from an injury hiatus since the U.S. Open, taking the lead with a strong performance in the first set. However, as the match progressed into the second set, the dynamics shifted dramatically.

Berrettini faced a physical setback, showing signs of distress that led to medical intervention right on the court. Despite this, Murray capitalised on the situation, adjusting his strategy and leveling the match by winning the second set.

Murray's experience and strategic play came to the forefront in the deciding set. He broke Berrettini early, setting a tone for the remainder of the match. Although Berrettini showed commendable spirit, holding his serve, he couldn't break Murray's defence.

Murray, a two-time Miami Open champion, clinched the match with a decisive backhand winner, celebrating with a spirited fist pump. This victory not only marked his progress to the next round but also underscored his status as one of the three active players with over 30 wins at the Miami Open, joining the ranks of tennis greats Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.

Osaka breezes past Cocciaretto

Naomi Osaka gracefully overcame Elisabetta Cocciaretto with scores of 6-3, 6-4, securing her spot in the tournament's second round.

The match was anticipated to be a challenging hurdle for Osaka, considering Cocciaretto's recent form. However, Osaka, showcased the prowess and finesse that once crowned her with four Grand Slam titles.

She broke Cocciaretto's serve early in the match, setting a tone of dominance that persisted throughout. Osaka's performance was a blend of strategic brilliance and athletic excellence, allowing no break opportunities to Cocciaretto in the first set and requiring just one break in the second to claim her victory. The match concluded on a high note with Osaka delivering an ace, a fitting end to a display of her returning form.

Looking ahead, Osaka is set to face Elina Svitolina, the Ukrainian 15th seed, in what promises to be an intriguing encounter between two mothers making their comebacks. Svitolina, less than a year after her own return from maternity leave, presents a formidable challenge. Osaka expressed admiration for Svitolina's impressive run to the Wimbledon semi-finals last year, highlighting the respect and anticipation surrounding their upcoming match.