Naomi Osaka storms into US Open semis with straight-sets win over Muchova

Naomi Osaka’s comeback season reached another milestone on Wednesday as she powered into the semi-finals of the US Open with a straight-sets win over Czech 11th seed Karolina Muchova. The Japanese star, seeded 23rd, prevailed 6-4, 7-6(3) in one hour and 56 minutes on Arthur Ashe Stadium, booking her first Grand Slam semi-final since the 2021 Australian Open title run.

The result sets up a blockbuster last-four clash with American eighth seed Amanda Anisimova, who stunned Wimbledon champion Iga Swiatek earlier in the day.

Osaka back among the elite

A two-time US Open champion (2018, 2020), Osaka has endured a turbulent few years that included mental health struggles, injuries, and a career break in 2023 for the birth of her daughter. Her run in New York signals a full-circle moment, reminding fans of the brilliance that earned her four Grand Slam titles before her hiatus.

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“It was an incredibly difficult match,” Osaka said afterwards. “Karolina is one of the best players in the world, and every time I play her it’s incredibly tough. Honestly, I was sitting in the stands not long ago, dreaming I could come back here and compete again. Now that dream is coming true.”

The match

The opening set was tightly contested, with both players serving strongly and chances at a premium. Muchova had a break point in the opening game, but Osaka fended it off with back-to-back winners. At 5-4, Osaka seized her chance. A wild Muchova forehand gave the Japanese star three set points, and she converted the second to claim the opener 6-4.

The second set brought more drama. Muchova required a medical timeout to treat a thigh problem but returned strongly, breaking immediately to lead 1-0. Osaka, however, broke back instantly and the set progressed on serve until 5-4, when Muchova again threatened to level the match.

Serving for the set, the Czech faltered under pressure. Osaka broke to love, forcing a tiebreak, and then raised her level in the clutch moments to close it out 7-6(3).

What’s next

Osaka now faces Anisimova in Thursday’s semi-final. The 27-year-old will enter the match brimming with confidence, having beaten three higher-ranked opponents en route, including third seed Coco Gauff in the last 16.

With Swiatek out and Osaka rediscovering her best form, the US Open is suddenly wide open. A fifth major title is now within reach for the Japanese superstar, who is proving that her time away from the tour has only sharpened her hunger.