Osaka expressed surprise at not crying during the post-match interview and compared her championship-winning pattern to boxing.

With a 6-4, 7-6(3) win, Naomi Osaka reached the Grand Slam semifinals for the first time since the 2021 Australian Open, declaring her genuine comeback with a brilliant match.

In the US Open women’s quarterfinals, Osaka beat Muchova in straight sets to secure a semifinal spot, marking a powerful return. Notably, there is a remarkable pattern in her career — whenever she wins a Grand Slam quarterfinal, she eventually claims the title, which has fans eagerly anticipating her journey in this tournament.

After the match, the on-site host focused on her strong performances in the later stages of Grand Slams, asking, “Every time you win a Grand Slam quarterfinal, you go on to win the championship. Why is that?”

Osaka smiled and replied, “I honestly can’t give a definite answer because it’s been a long time since I reached this stage.” She used a vivid metaphor: “In the final rounds of a Grand Slam, you face the world’s best players. We all aim for the same goal. It’s a bit like boxing, but with tennis.”

Some netizens commented, “Matches after the Grand Slam quarterfinals are always very tough; they test your willpower. You have to hold on until the very end, grit your teeth, and give your all to beat the toughest opponents. It’s an intense battle both mentally and physically.”

When asked what returning to the Grand Slam semifinals meant to her, Osaka showed genuine emotion: “It means a lot. I’m actually surprised I didn’t cry.” She gave special thanks to her team: “You haven’t seen how much effort I’ve put in. I’m really grateful to my team and fortunate to stay healthy.”

Osaka’s comeback has sparked widespread attention and enthusiastic reactions in the tennis world. “Seeing her return and play so well is truly exciting!” a fan wrote on social media. “She has brought so much to the sport.”

Others pointed out, “Naomi Osaka is not only an outstanding athlete but also a genuine person. By sharing her mental health struggles, she has helped reduce stigma around the issue.”

Many tennis fans are looking forward to a possible final showdown between her and Sabalenka. “An Osaka vs. Sabalenka final would be a dream match, with both being exceptional champions.”

It is worth noting that Osaka will next face Anisimova for a spot in the final; Anisimova is also in great form, having defeated Swiatek—who beat her with a double bagel in this year’s Wimbledon final—in straight sets.

After the match, Osaka said, “I know the next match will be very tough, but I will give it my all. I’m grateful to be back on this stage and will cherish every moment.”

If Osaka can maintain her current form, she has the chance to continue her remarkable pattern of winning a Grand Slam title after a quarterfinal victory and claim her fifth Grand Slam championship.

Her comeback is inspiring; from a low point after 2021 to returning to the semifinals now, Naomi Osaka’s journey motivates everyone chasing their dreams. Before this year’s US Open, Clijsters boldly predicted that Sinner and Osaka would dominate the tournament, highlighting how her new coach has revitalized her. Now, with only two matches left for both players, will this prediction come true? Let’s wait and see!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)