Naomi Osaka Shines in US Open Comeback Run
Naomi Osaka’s name is back in the spotlight at the US Open, and it feels like a return to form that many tennis fans have been waiting for. After years of ups and downs — from her public openness about mental health struggles to a long break for maternity leave — Osaka has found herself back in a Grand Slam quarterfinal for the first time since the 2021 Australian Open, which she went on to win.
Her journey to this stage hasn’t been easy. Following her triumphs earlier in her career, Osaka stepped away from the game at times to prioritize her well-being. Later, she took nearly a year and a half away from the tour to welcome her daughter, Shai, in July 2023. She even attended last year’s U.S. Open as a spectator, sitting in the stands and watching Coco Gauff lift the trophy. Fast forward to this week, and Osaka is no longer a spectator but once again a serious contender.
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In her fourth-round match, Osaka faced none other than Gauff, the reigning French Open champion and World No. 3. In just over an hour, Osaka powered through with a commanding 6-3, 6-2 victory. The result not only marked her return to the business end of a major tournament but also reminded everyone of her remarkable record: every single time she has advanced past the fourth round of a Slam, she’s gone on to win the entire thing. That’s four titles, all on hard courts — two in New York and two in Melbourne.
What stood out, though, wasn’t only Osaka’s tennis. It was the respect she showed toward her opponent. On court after the match, Osaka told the crowd that she looks up to Gauff and has “all the respect in the world” for her, praising her maturity and presence both on and off the court. That humility and admiration created a moment of mutual respect between two of the game’s brightest stars.
As for her next challenge, Osaka is preparing to face Karolina Muchova, a versatile Czech player who has proven herself as one of the most creative talents on tour. Muchova, who knocked out Osaka at Flushing Meadows last year, has already been to multiple semifinals here and reached the French Open final in 2023. Their head-to-head history is split, which sets the stage for a tightly contested battle.
What’s different about Osaka this time around is her mindset. Instead of talking about pressure or expectation, she’s been open about wanting to enjoy the ride. She’s smiling more, soaking up the atmosphere, and embracing the thrill of playing against the very best. For fans, it feels like the Osaka they fell in love with — the big serve, the explosive forehand, and now, an added layer of perspective.
With history showing that she has never lost once reaching this stage of a Slam, Osaka enters her quarterfinal with a chance not just to keep her comeback alive, but to remind the tennis world why she’s one of the most dangerous players on hard courts. And no matter the outcome, her presence back in the late rounds of a major already feels like a victory.
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