Naomi Osaka expressed her renewed passion for tennis after advancing to the US Open semifinals on Wednesday with a 6-4, 7-6(3) victory over Karolina Muchova, highlighting her impressive return to the sport’s biggest stage.
Four years after claiming her fourth major title, the 23rd seed, who rejoined the tour last season following an extended maternity leave, maintained her perfect 5-0 record in major quarterfinals and set up a showdown with Amanda Anisimova.
“I’ve realized I love tennis far more than I ever thought, and I’ve discovered that I genuinely enjoy challenges,” said the Japanese athlete, who watched the semifinals from Arthur Ashe Stadium stands two years ago.
“It’s like a video game. You keep playing, and even if you fail a level, you restart and continue until you succeed.
“It can be tough at times, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Muchova, who had spent over 10 hours across four exhausting rounds, required locker room treatment for what appeared to be a left leg issue after losing a close opening set but returned fiercely to break at the start of the next.
Despite her thigh being heavily taped, her movement was sometimes restricted, yet she managed to challenge Osaka with her creative play, securing a 5-4 lead, only for Osaka to regain control and win after a tiebreak.
“It was an incredibly tough match,” Osaka commented.
“She’s one of the world’s best players. Every match against her is so challenging.
“Last year, she beat me when I wore one of my favorite outfits. I was really upset. I’m just grateful to be here.”
