US Open: Naomi Osaka Edges Closer to Potential Comeback Title

Osaka beats Muchova in straight sets to reach US Open semifinals

Naomi Osaka outplays Karolina Muchova in a closely contested match, advancing to the US Open semifinals and showcasing her resurgent form.

Muchova managed to save the first set point, but Osaka was unfazed, converting the second to take a 6-4...

Naomi Osaka advanced to the US Open semifinals with a convincing straight-sets victory over Karolina Muchova, winning 6-4, 7-6(3) in a match that lasted nearly two hours. This marks Osaka's deepest run in a Grand Slam since her Australian Open win in 2021, showcasing her resurgence in form.

Despite Muchova's valiant effort, which included a medical timeout due to a leg issue, Osaka's powerful play and strategic returns proved decisive. The Japanese star dominated serve throughout, leveraging aggressive returns to seize openings and capitalize on key moments.

Naomi Osaka is one step closer to the US Open final! pic.twitter.com/WsEcBO17sv

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 4, 2025

Osaka's victory extends her unbeaten streak in Grand Slam quarterfinals, now standing at 13-0 in such matches. Her performance solidifies her position as a strong contender for the title, and she'll face off against American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova in the semifinals. This upcoming match promises to be an exciting clash between two talented players.

Naomi Osaka will face Amanda Anisimova in the US Open semifinals after a strong performance that saw her eliminate third seed Coco Gauff in the fourth round. Osaka's victory over Gauff showcased her resurgent form, and she'll now look to carry that momentum into her semifinal match against Anisimova.

Osaka's road to the semifinals has been impressive, with wins over three higher-ranked opponents. Her performances have hinted at the elite level of tennis that earned her four Grand Slam singles titles before she took a break from her career in 2023. Osaka will be looking to tap into that form as she takes on Anisimova in the semifinals.

Look who is back.

Naomi Osaka has returned the US Open semifinals. pic.twitter.com/qujVkuSX1X

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 4, 2025

Naomi Osaka described her match against Karolina Muchova as “incredibly difficult,” acknowledging Muchova's status as one of the world's top players. “She's one of the best players in the world. Every time I play her it's incredibly difficult,” Osaka said, highlighting the competitive nature of their encounter on Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Reflecting on her journey, Osaka expressed her gratitude and surprise at reaching the semifinals, saying, “It means so much. I am so surprised I'm not crying. There's so much hard work that you guys haven't seen, but I am really grateful to my team and happy to be healthy.” This milestone marks a significant comeback for Osaka, who took a break from tennis after the birth of her daughter in 2023.

“I'm just really grateful to be here. Honestly, I was sitting up there and watching and hoping I would have the opportunity to play on this court again. My dream is coming true.”

“It means so much. I'm surprised I'm not crying.”

The first set was a closely contested affair, with both Naomi Osaka and Karolina Muchova serving well and limiting break point opportunities. Muchova had a lone chance in the opening game but Osaka quickly rallied, winning three straight points to fend off the threat.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 10th game when Muchova hit a wild forehand out, gifting Osaka three set points at 0-40. Osaka capitalized on the opportunity, taking the set 6-4 and gaining a crucial advantage in the match.

Muchova managed to save the first set point, but Osaka was unfazed, converting the second to take a 6-4, 0-0 lead. However, the momentum shifted momentarily as Muchova took a medical timeout due to an issue with her left thigh, returning with heavy strapping.

Despite the visible injury concerns, Muchova showed no immediate signs of discomfort and broke Osaka in the opening game of the second set to take a 1-0 lead. Osaka quickly responded, breaking back to level the set at 1-1. The match resumed its tight pattern, with both players holding serve and break opportunities remaining scarce.

Muchova seemed poised to take control of the match when she broke Osaka's serve to lead 5-4 and take charge. However, Osaka refused to back down, responding with a decisive break of her own, taking the set to 4-4 and forcing a tiebreaker.

In the tiebreaker, Osaka asserted her dominance, ultimately winning the set 7-6(3) and taking the match. Her ability to bounce back from adversity and capitalize on crucial moments proved decisive in securing her spot in the semifinals.