Peyton Stearns Throws up Court-Side After Defeating Naomi Osaka at Italian Open
In one of the most high-quality matches of the 2025 Italian Open so far, American Peyton Stearns pulled off a career-defining win over former World No. 1 Naomi Osaka- and then immediately vomited courtside after shaking hands with Naomi Osaka.
Stearns edged out Osaka in a grueling encounter, eventually triumphing 6-4,3-6,7-6 to advance to the next round. But it wasn’t just her tennis that drew attention, it was her grit and physical resilience under clear duress.
"I think in the tiebreak I was just trying not to throw up in the middle of the court," Stearns said sheepishly during her on-court interview. "I wasn’t feeling the best. I dug deep. I don’t think I’ve dug that deep in a while."
Peyton Stearns threw up immediately after her win over Naomi Osaka.
She also threw up before the 3rd set tiebreak.
It took a special kind of effort to get over the line today.
Warrior. 🇺🇸❤️
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) May 12, 2025
Despite the nausea and evident fatigue, Stearns held her nerve in a tense third set to close out the match. Moments after sealing the win, she rushed to the dustbin, doubled over and vomited near the side of the court, stunning fans who had just applauded her breakthrough performance. She was seen throwing up deep into the third set as well.
A little trip to the bucket for Peyton 😭🤢 pic.twitter.com/kUuGRPtdGR
— Owen (@kostekcanu) May 12, 2025
Osaka, who has been steadily building form in her return to the tour, showed flashes of brilliance but couldn't withstand the relentless energy and aggression from Stearns. The match saw long rallies, multiple momentum shifts, and intense physicality- all of which culminated in a dramatic and bizarre post-match scene.
Her adverse health didn't stop Stearns from producing spectacular shots and go toe-to-toe against a multiple grand slam champion. The fans enjoyed their display and did not hesitate to appreciate the shot-making on social media.
so good it brings a tear to your eye pic.twitter.com/O4yWSrJ945
— Owen (@kostekcanu) May 12, 2025
The 23-year-old’s run in Madrid and now in Rome, combined with her passion and honesty has won over fans. She advances to the next round carrying not only the momentum of a huge win, but also the admiration for her fighting spirit in the face of adversity.
