Paris – Aryna Sabalenka passed one of her sternest tests yet in her pursuit of a maiden French Open crown on Monday, overpowering Naomi Osaka 7-5 6-3 in a pulsating duel to power into the quarter-finals of the clay court Grand Slam.

Playing in the first women’s night-session match at Roland Garros in three years, the Belarusian recovered from a ragged opening to extend her remarkable consistency at majors, where she has reached at least the quarter-finals in her last ​14 appearances.

“She is such a great player, she plays super aggressive tennis,” Sabalenka said on court before delighting the crowd by showing off a playful ‌moonwalk. “I’m happy ‌with how I was able to put back the pressure on her. It’s amazing to play the night session ​in front of all of you guys.

Adblock test (Why?)