Naomi Osaka has reached the semifinals of the US Open for the first time since her 2021 Australian Open victory, signaling a return to form on the Grand Slam stage. In a challenging quarterfinal match, the 23rd-seeded Japanese star defeated Karolina Muchova with a hard-fought 6-4, 7-6(3) win at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This victory extends her perfect record in major quarterfinals to 5-0 and sets up a semifinal clash with Amanda Anisimova.
The win is a significant milestone for Osaka, who returned to the sport last season after taking a maternity break. Reflecting on her journey, she shared her emotional relief after the match. "It means so much. I'm surprised I'm not crying," Osaka said, recalling a moment two years ago when she was watching the semifinals from the stands. "I was sitting up there watching and hoping I would have an opportunity to play on this court again, so my dreams are coming true…There’s been so much hard work you guys haven’t seen."
Muchova, who had already spent over 10 hours on court in her previous four matches, battled through a left leg issue that required medical treatment. Despite heavy strapping on her thigh, the Czech player showcased her signature inventive style of tennis, frustrating Osaka and even breaking serve to take a 5-4 lead in the second set. However, Osaka remained composed, breaking back to level the score and ultimately dominating the tie-break to secure her victory.
After the match, Osaka praised her opponent, acknowledging the difficulty of the contest. "It was an incredibly difficult match," she said. "She is one of the best players in the world. Every time I play against her, it’s so difficult." She also jokingly mentioned a previous loss to Muchova, stating, "Last year she beat me when I had one of my best outfits. I was really upset. I'm just grateful to be here."
The impressive run at Flushing Meadows is a testament to Osaka's renewed form, which began after she parted ways with her former coach. Now coached by Tomasz Wiktorowski, who previously guided Iga Swiatek to four major titles, Osaka has rediscovered her rhythm, reaching the final of the Montreal Open and now advancing to the semifinals of the US Open. If she can defeat Anisimova, she will become the first player since Victoria Azarenka in 2020 to reach a Grand Slam final after becoming a mother.
