Home SPORTS US Open Final Bound: Anisimova Outlasts Osaka, Awaits Sabalenka

US Open Final Bound: Anisimova Outlasts Osaka, Awaits Sabalenka

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Amanda Anisimova
Amanda Anisimova edges Naomi Osaka in thrilling US Open Semi-Final


Amanda Anisimova defeats Naomi Osaka 6-7(4), 7-6(3), 6-3 to reach the US Open final, where she'll face Aryna Sabalenka.


“I don't feel sad. It's really weird... because I just feel like I did the best that I could...” 


Amanda Anisimova made history with a thrilling comeback win against four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, defeating her 6-7(4), 7-6(3), 6-3. This victory propels Anisimova into the US Open final, where she'll face off against Aryna Sabalenka in pursuit of her first major title.


“Oh my God. It means the world,” Anisimova exclaimed after reaching her first US Open final. “I'm trying to process that right now. It's absolutely a dream come true. This has been a dream of mine like forever to be in the US Open final and the hope is to be the champion.” The 24-year-old's determination and skill will be put to the test as she takes on Sabalenka, the current title holder, in a battle for the championship.


Osaka's Strong Start

Naomi Osaka, a two-time New York champion, showcased her experience and skill in her first major semi-final since 2021. The high-pressure atmosphere of Arthur Ashe Stadium didn't faze her as she battled Anisimova in a tightly contested match. The pair traded breaks twice in the opening set, highlighting the competitive nature of the contest.



Disruption and Refocus

A delayed line call by the automated system briefly disrupted play, but Osaka quickly refocused and regained her momentum. She let out a powerful roar when Anisimova hit a shot into the net on set point in the tiebreak, securing the first set 7-6(4). Osaka's ability to adapt to the interruption and capitalize on crucial moments was key to her strong start.


The momentum shifted in the second set as Anisimova matched Osaka's intensity, leading to a fiercely contested battle. The players traded powerful shots for 12 games, with neither able to gain a clear advantage. Ultimately, Anisimova seized control in the tiebreak, forcing the match into a deciding set.


Anisimova's determination paid off in the final set, as she surged ahead 4-1 with a decisive forehand winner. Having lost to Iga Swiatek 6-0, 6-0 in the Wimbledon final just two months prior, the eighth seed demonstrated remarkable growth and composure. She held her nerve to close out the victory, securing a spot in back-to-back Grand Slam finals.



'Mental game'

“It just shows that I've worked really hard, especially on my mental game and not giving up,” Anisimova said.


“Like today, I could have easily said, 'Oh she's playing better than me, and I can't really do anything'. I really tried to find a way any way I could to stay in the match, even though it was extremely tough, and she was playing great tennis.


“I've really worked on myself to really be able to handle those moments and to believe in myself ... and especially since the Wimbledon final. I've shifted with my attitude, as well.”


Naomi Osaka expressed a sense of pride and inspiration after her US Open semi-final loss to Amanda Anisimova. Despite falling short, Osaka felt fulfilled by her performance. “I don't feel sad. It's really weird... because I just feel like I did the best that I could,” she said, highlighting her focus on personal growth and self-improvement.



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