AO 2025: Yonex Stars Shine Bright with Victories, Setting up Anticipated Showdowns in 3rd Round

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - The iconic blue courts of the Australian Open always bring new stories with a new season, and 2025 has proved no different. From rising young talents to seasoned veterans, Yonex-wielding players with diverse styles and backgrounds have advanced to the third round, showcasing their individuality.

The Comeback Moms March On

Naomi Osaka (JPN) continued her "revenge tour" at this year's tournament. After defeating Caroline Garcia (FRA), her conqueror from last year's Australian Open, in the first round, she faced Karolina Muchova (CZE), who had defeated her just four months ago at the US Open.

"I did think about the US Open match," Osaka admitted. "After I lost that match, I often thought about what I could do better."

But Muchova's flawless start to their Melbourne encounter might have stirred those memories. Unable to disrupt the Czech player's versatile game, Osaka lost the first set 1-6.

In the second set, though, Osaka told herself, "Just swing". Once she committed to her aggressive style, the match turned dramatically. Riding a wave of momentum, she upped her service numbers and sharpened her footwork. She countered Muchova's power and all-court approach with vintage Osaka tennis, claiming set two, 6-1.

The match point in the final set epitomized Osaka's performance on the day: stretching her racket just in time, she sent a perfectly placed lob that dropped just onto the baseline. When Muchova's return sailed out, Osaka jumped for joy, placing her hand on her chest as a smile of relief and happiness lit up her face.

Another mom-on-the-comeback is Belinda Bencic (SUI), playing her first Grand Slam since giving birth to her daughter in April. Playing Suzan Lamens (NED) in the second round, Bencic countered the Dutchwoman with her signature depth off of seamless groundstrokes, dominating the rallies.

Her mental strength shone through in the second-set tiebreaker. Seizing control after a double fault by her opponent, Bencic won three consecutive points to secure a 6-1, 7-6(3) victory.

The former world No. 4, as brilliant as before, now faces her next opponent: Naomi Osaka. This matchup between players who have known each other since their teens promises to be a highlight of the tournament's first week.

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