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Olympics Social Slice: Djokovic and Osaka roll through; Swiatek devastated


On today’s Olympics Social Slice, Novak Djokovic and Naomi Osaka sail into the last 16, while Iga Swiatek becomes the latest star to fall.

Firstly, men’s world number one Novak Djokovic ousted Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff 6-4, 6-3 in the second round in Tokyo in an hour and 16 minutes.

The Serbian hit this stunning trademark open stance backhand to pass the German and secure a break in the second set.

World number 2 Daniil Medvedev also advanced routinely with a 6-2, 6-1 hammering of India’s Sumit Nagal.

The 25-year-old Russian was clearly having fun – as seen by him smiling after hitting this outrageous slice winner in the final game.

The top seed remaining in the women’s draw – world number two Naomi Osaka – also progressed to the third round with ease.

The Japanese star saw off Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic 6-3, 6-2 in just over an hour after not dropping serve and facing just a single break point.

Following world number one Ash Barty’s shock loss yesterday, two more favourites for the women’s title exited the Games today.

No. 3 seed Aryna Sabalenka was edged out in a third set tiebreak by the world number 50 – Croatia’s Donna Vekic.

The 25-year-old came from 4-2 down in the deciding set to prevail, and was aided by this brilliant volley in the tiebreak.

Sixth seed Iga Swiatek also fell in the second round on her Olympic debut – losing 6-3, 7-6 (7-4) to world number 29 Paula Badosa.

After falling to the Spaniard, the 19-year-old Pole showed how much the Games meant to her – remaining on court for several minutes and crying.


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.