Naomi Osaka dominant at Madrid Open but big names crash out

World number one Naomi Osaka made a strong start to the Madrid Open, easily besting former finalist Dominika Cibulkova 6-2, 7-6(8-6).

The Japanese star was in fine form, overcoming nerves and the unfamiliar clay surface to ease into the next round.

“For me, I’m just happy to get through it,” Osaka admitted to reporters.

“I feel the most nervous during the first round and to play against Cibulkova was kind of tough for me, especially on clay.”

Elsewhere, Belinda Bencic toppled Alison Van Uytvanck 6-4, 7-3 in an hour and 27 minutes, but Julia Goerges was sent crashing out by Viktoria Kuzmova in straight sets.

Elina Svitolina And Garbine Muguruza we’re also eliminated by Pauline Parmentier and Petra Martic respectively.

Follow us on Twitter @T365Official and like our Facebook page.

More from Tennis365:

• • Dominic Thiem starting to master the art of consistency against the Big Three

  • COMMENT: Next Gen Finals was outgoing ATP chief Chris Kermode’s finest achievement

  • EXCLUSIVE: Judy Murray reveals coaching secrets at her Algarve tennis camp

  • FEATURE: If tennis players were Avengers…

  • Famous Five: Women tennis stars who have dated other sportsmen – with mixed success