Miami Open Day 5: High-Stakes Matches Dodge Expectations

MIAMI, Florida, March 22, 2025 — The WTA Miami Open intensifies as day five approaches with eight thrilling third-round matches set to engage tennis enthusiasts globally. Highlighted players include world No. 3 Coco Gauff, reigning champion Danielle Collins, and former champion Naomi Osaka, each vying for deeper runs in this prestigious tournament.

As the players gear up for their matches, Coco Gauff takes center stage, coming off a strong opening round where she swept Sofia Kenin without losing a single game. The young American showcased exceptional skill, facing just one break point in the match. Gauff now prepares to clash with Maria Sakkari in a potentially momentum-shifting contest. Gauff edges Sakkari in their head-to-head 5-4, with their last meeting resulting in a straight-sets victory for Gauff at Indian Wells.

“Every match is important, but I feel really good about my game. I want to keep this energy flowing,” Gauff stated confidently. Sakkari, who has struggled recently, will need to elevate her play significantly to challenge Gauff, who is aiming for a deep tournament run.

On another court, Naomi Osaka is making strides in her comeback following a challenging season. Securing her first victory since January, Osaka battled back to overcome Yuliia Starodubtseva in a three-set match, winning 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. “I want to play with the big dogs so bad,” Osaka said after the match, emphasizing her determination to return to prime form after injuries hindered her start to the 2025 campaign.

Osaka’s next opponent is Hailey Baptiste, who achieved her first top-20 win this season by defeating Daria Kasatkina. Their previous encounter earlier this year saw Osaka triumph in a tightly contested three-set match. “It’s going to be a tough match for both of us. I’m just ready to play,” Osaka added, expressing enthusiasm for the challenge ahead.

Collins also remains a strong contender, having successfully navigated a tough opener against Sorana Cirstea. The defending champion now faces Rebeka Masarova, who impressed in her previous round after capitalizing on a lackluster performance from Donna Vekic. While Masarova is viewed as an underdog in this match, her recent form could potentially pose a significant challenge to Collins.

Magda Linette is set for her own encounter against Linda Fruhvirtova, following her recent victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova. Thriving in Miami’s conditions, Linette seeks to secure her third consecutive appearance in this round of the tournament. Despite Fruhvirtova holding just one WTA title — won in a match against Linette in Chennai — their past rivalry promises an exhilarating contest.

With numerous compelling matches lined up, day five of the Miami Open is expected to deliver thrilling tennis with important implications for player rankings and momentum. Fans can look forward to witnessing the resurgence of beloved players like Osaka and Gauff alongside emerging talents eager to make their mark on the world stage.

The Miami Open embodies not merely a tournament but a testament to resilience, ambition, and the relentless spirit of competition. Each point scored reflects these athletes’ quests for victory and their places in tennis history.