The Clay season is finally complete and it is now time for the players to get some experience on grass. This is what certain players will be looking forward to in the Libema Open, which might not have a lot of big games but can still give us some great games in the tournament. This is the chance for most of the people to get some points during the tour as well.
One of the biggest matches that is coming up is between Naomi Osaka and Elise Mertens. In terms of experience and Grand Slams, it is the Japanese who will be the favourite for the fans to win this encounter, but we should not forget that she will be up against a higher-seeded player in Elise Mertens. Even though Osaka did have one of the best matches in the currently concluded French Open, She isn't really in the form of her life right now. It is safe to say this is another test for her on her return.
Another comeback chance for Osaka
We did see some glimpses of brilliance from Osaka in the Grand Slam tournament in her 2nd round match against Iga Swiatek and this will be another comeback chance for her to finally break out from under the Top 100. Elise Mertens might not have a Grand Slam to her name, but is still a higher-seeded and has won more WTA singles titles than Osaka. Even the head-to-head record between them is quite close as they have played 5 matches together where 3 have been won by Osaka and 2 have been won by the Belgian, which also includes this season's Indian Wells Masters as well.
This might be another tough match for Osaka and it might take all her hard work to get past this first round. Osaka will still be looking for a title win this season that will take her to the top. This has not been a season to remember, but we are sure that after that tight match with Swiatek, she will be looking to make an epic comeback.