Osaka and Jeanjean First to Qualify for Semifinals in Saint-Malo
Quarterfinals day in Saint-Malo. In the bottom half of the draw, the first semifinal matchup is set. Second seed Naomi Osaka, ranked 55th in the world and a four-time Grand Slam champion, has held her ground so far. After her wins against Petra Marcinko (6-2, 6-1) and Diane Parry (2-6, 6-3, 6-4), the Japanese star confirmed her form against Elsa Jacquemot.
The Frenchwoman, who had previously defeated Marina Stakusic (6-4, 4-6, 6-4) and Olivia Gadecki (6-2, 7-5), faced a much tougher opponent on paper this time—and that proved true on the court.
Osaka won in straight sets (6-3, 6-4) and continues her journey in Ille-et-Vilaine. For a spot in the final, she will face the last remaining French player in the tournament, Léolia Jeanjean.
The latter won the all-French showdown of the day against Fiona Ferro. Jeanjean, who eliminated defending champion Loïs Boisson (6-3, 4-6, 6-4) and then Caroline Dolehide (6-3, 1-6, 6-1), defeated her compatriot in straight sets this time (7-5, 6-3).
It’s worth noting that the last two quarterfinals will take place later in the afternoon. McCartney Kessler will face Viktorija Golubic, followed by the final match between Katie Volynets and Kaja Juvan.
