The champion of Grand Slam four times Naomi Osaka crashed by Madrid Open in the first round on Tuesday with a 6-4, 2-6, 6-4 loss from Lucia Bronzetti.

The former Numri one of the Japanese world, ranked 55th, encountered a strong second set after losing the first but eventually came short against her stained Italian opponent.

“From the outside it may seem easy, but when you are in trial against a great champion like it is always difficult – I’m proud of how I achieved the game,” stated Bronza.

“She hit the ball very strong … I tried to make some changes to my game as Drop Shot, I got a lot of points with it.”

Osakawho is still finding shape after a 15-month break from tennis and played for the last time in Miami Open in March, secured two resting points in the fourth match of the first set she brought out.

The bronzett split into the seventh and served it before Osaka responded tightly. The 27-year-old secured three service vacations and accepted one to force a decision maker.

Osaka then immediately accepted a break and despite being able to again in the service at 3-3 when she got her fifth point of the game, broke back immediately.

The bronzet triumphed when Osaka slipped as he tried to reach a cross-judicial blow.

The Italian will face the US world number five Madison Keys in the second round.

“I played against her twice. It will be a real tough match like today,” Bronzetti said.