New York, Aug. 29 -- Two-time US Open champion Naomi Osaka produced a commanding display to defeat American Hailey Baptiste 6-3, 6-1 in the second round of the women's singles here today.
The No. 23 seed Osaka, returning to form after a break from the tour for maternity, combined her trademark power with measured control to outclass Baptiste, who struggled with nerves and double faults despite flashes of aggressive shotmaking.
The 27-year-old Japanese star, who had beaten Baptiste in two previous three-setters earlier this season, ensured there was no repeat of those long duels. She quickly wrested control of the contest, capitalising on the American's early service woes to pocket the opening set 6-3.
Baptiste, playing at a career-high r...