Tennis-Osaka overcomes the Osorio obstacle course in the opening match of Melbourne Park

MELBOURNE (Reuters) – Defending champion Naomi Osaka overcame an unexpectedly tough test from Colombian Camila Osorio to reach the second round of the Australian Open 6-3 6-3 at Rod Laver Arena on Monday.

The former Japanese world number one looked fine as he took a 5-0 lead in the opening set but holding the first serve invigorated Osorio, who then began to chase everything that Osaka had. throw at her.

Osaka needed to save two break points to keep serve in the first set and face two more in the second before overwhelming the inexperienced world No. end line.

“It always feels special to be back here,” said the 13th seed, who will next face Dayana Yastremska or Madison Brengle as she searches for a third Melbourne Park title.

“I think she played great. Overall, I’m happy to be here, I’m happy to see everyone in the audience again, and I hope we gave you a great performance. ”

(Reporting by Nick Mulvenney in Sydney, Editing by Peter Rutherford)