The World No 1 and top seed overcame a slow start to defeat Osaka 7-5, 6-3, extending her remarkable Grand Slam consistency as she reached at least the last eight for a 14th consecutive major.
In the first women’s night-session match at Roland Garros in three years, Osaka – making her first fourth-round appearance in Paris – made a fast start and led 2-0 in the opening set after a Sabalenka double fault.
But the Belarusian quickly responded, breaking back immediately before edging ahead 6-5 and taking the set.
Sabalenka then seized control in the second set, breaking for 4-3 after a long rally finished with a clever half-volley, before sealing victory on her first match point after one hour and 27 minutes.
Osaka was unable to sustain her early intensity as Sabalenka gradually took command of the contest.
Sabalenka set up a quarter-final meeting with 25th seed Diana Shnaider and reflected positively on her performance afterwards.
“She is such a great player, she plays super aggressive tennis. I’m happy with how I was able to put back the pressure on here.
“It’s amazing to play the night session in front of all you guys.
“I’m super happy with my serve. I’m super pleased overall with the performance today.”
