Osaka’s Tears Despite US Open Wobbles for Sinner and Swiatek

Top seeds Jannik Sinner and Iga Swiatek navigated early challenges in the US Open’s first round on Tuesday, while Naomi Osaka made a memorable and emotional comeback to Flushing Meadows.

Sinner overcame a set and a break deficit to defeat Mackenzie McDonald, securing a 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 6-2 victory. The Italian, returning just a week after being embroiled in a doping controversy, surged through the final set, winning 18 of the last 22 games.

Despite the recent scandal involving two failed drug tests, Sinner was cleared of any wrongdoing, allowing him to continue his career without a suspension. “It wasn’t easy initially, but I focused on maintaining my composure and finding my rhythm,” Sinner reflected on his performance.

Swiatek, the 2022 US Open champion, advanced past 104th-ranked Kamilla Rakhimova with a 6-4, 7-6 (8/6) win, extending her season record to 54 match victories. Despite her victory, the Polish player had a rough match, making 41 unforced errors and saving three set points in the second set. “I need to adapt to the court and build rhythm,” Swiatek noted, acknowledging the challenge of playing on the tournament’s grandest stage.

Naomi Osaka, who missed last year’s tournament due to maternity leave, made a triumphant return by defeating 10th seed Jelena Ostapenko 6-3, 6-2. Osaka, now ranked 88th, notched her first top-10 win in four years, delivering nine aces and committing only five unforced errors. Her vibrant outfit, featuring a large green bow and frilly skirt, mirrored her dynamic performance. “Winning this match and being back here means so much,” said a teary-eyed Osaka.

Elsewhere, 2021 semi-finalist Felix Auger-Aliassime fell to Jakub Mensík, while Greek 11th seed Stefanos Tsitsipas was knocked out by Thanasi Kokkinakis. Elena Rybakina, the fourth seed, won decisively over Destanee Aiava, and 2016 champion Stan Wawrinka aims to join an elite group of players who have won matches at age 39 or older.