Osaka stuns defending champ Gauff to keep U.S. Open comeback dream alive
Naomi Osaka is beginning to look like the champion who once dominated women’s tennis, and for the first time in years, it feels like she may be on the verge of another Grand Slam triumph.
Heading into the 2025 U.S. Open, expectations surrounding Osaka were relatively modest. Seeded No. 23, she had spent much of the past few years away from the sport, taking time off for her mental health and welcoming the birth of her daughter. The former world No. 1 had not lifted a Grand Slam trophy since her victory at the 2021 Australian Open, and she had not even been seeded at a major since the 2022 Australian Open. By those measures, her title chances in New York seemed slim at best.
But everything changed on Monday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium, when Osaka dismantled No. 3 seed and reigning U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff in the Round of 16. In just over an hour, Osaka put on a display of power and precision, winning 6-3, 6-2. Her serve was nearly untouchable—she captured 15 of 16 first-serve points (94%) and won 17 of 22 second-serve points (77%), while also striking 10 clean winners. The result wasn’t just an upset; it was a statement.
With that victory, the narrative surrounding Osaka has shifted dramatically. History is on her side: the last four times the 27-year-old reached a Grand Slam quarterfinal, she went on to win the title. That track record alone makes her one of the most dangerous players left in the draw.
In her post-match interview, Osaka reflected on what fuels her resurgence. She recalled being in the stands at Flushing Meadows in 2023, only two months after giving birth, watching Gauff win the title. “I just really wanted an opportunity to come out here and play,” she said. “This is my favorite court in the world, and it means so much for me to be back here.”
Next, Osaka faces No. 11 seed Karolina Muchova in the quarterfinals. Should she advance, her path will likely include showdowns against No. 2 seed Iga Swiatek and top seed Aryna Sabalenka. The road is daunting, but with Osaka playing freely and confidently at her beloved U.S. Open, it would surprise no one if her comeback story ends with another Grand Slam title.
