Naomi Osaka is back in the spotlight at the National Bank Open in Montreal, powering her way into the semifinals with a commanding 6-2, 6-2 victory over tenth seed Elina Svitolina. This marks Osaka’s first appearance in a WTA 1000 semifinal in over three years and signals a promising resurgence for the four-time Grand Slam champion as she aims to capture her eighth career title.
Dominant Performance Against Svitolina
Osaka, who has been building momentum throughout the tournament, showcased a blend of power and precision in a match that lasted only 68 minutes. Her aggressive baseline play and exceptional defense kept Svitolina on the back foot, dropping just four games across two sets.
- Osaka saved four out of five break points she faced, showcasing mental toughness.
- She broke Svitolina several times, including key breaks at crucial moments.
- This marks Osaka’s fifth career win over Svitolina in eight meetings, emphasizing her dominance in head-to-head encounters.
Reflecting on her performance, Osaka said, “I’m really happy. After Wimbledon, I lowered my expectations, and now I’m just having fun playing again.”
Up Next: A Showdown with Clara Tauson
In the semifinals, Osaka will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson, who earned her spot with a 6-1, 6-4 upset over sixth seed Madison Keys. Tauson is riding a wave of confidence, having scored multiple Top 10 wins during this tournament—including a recent comeback victory that she dedicated to her late grandfather.
- Tauson has reached her second WTA 1000 semifinal of 2025.
- She impressed by dispatching reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys.
- Tauson’s aggressive serve and forehand will test Osaka’s resilience.
- This matchup promises to be a thrilling battle between Osaka’s experience and Tauson’s youthful energy.
What This Means for Osaka’s Season
Osaka’s run in Montreal is her best WTA 1000 showing since she reached the final in Miami in 2022. After taking a 15-month break from professional tennis for personal reasons and welcoming her daughter, Shai, in July 2023, Osaka is proving she remains a force on the court.
- The victory secures Osaka a seeded position for the upcoming US Open.
- She is looking to add to her trophies, with her last title coming at the 2021 Australian Open.
- This performance could be a springboard for further success in the late summer hard-court season.
Key Highlights from the National Bank Open Semifinals
- Naomi Osaka defeated Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-2.
- Clara Tauson upset Madison Keys 6-1, 6-4.
- Victoria Mboko, a Canadian teenager, also reached the semifinals alongside Elena Rybakina.
- The semifinals feature a mix of veteran champions and rising young stars.
FAQs: Naomi Osaka and Montreal Semifinal Facts
1. When was the last time Naomi Osaka reached a WTA 1000 semifinal before Montreal 2025?
Her last WTA 1000 semifinal appearance was in Miami in 2022.
2. Who will Naomi Osaka face in the Montreal semifinals?
Osaka will face Denmark’s Clara Tauson.
3. How did Clara Tauson perform to reach the semifinals?
Tauson defeated sixth seed Madison Keys 6-1, 6-4 and is on a strong run with multiple Top 10 wins in this tournament.
4. What does this semifinal appearance mean for Osaka’s US Open prospects?
Her Montreal performance secured her a seeded spot at the US Open, boosting her chances at the final Grand Slam of the year.
5. Has Osaka won a Grand Slam recently?
Her most recent major title was the 2021 Australian Open.
Conclusion
Naomi Osaka’s commanding performance in Montreal signals a bright resurgence for the former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion. As she prepares to face the powerful and determined Clara Tauson in the semifinals, tennis fans can expect high-quality, riveting action. Osaka’s blend of experience, talent, and renewed passion promises an exciting lead-up to the US Open, where she’ll look to reclaim her place among the sport’s elite.
