Naomi Osaka Reaches US Open Semifinals After 14-Month Break

Naomi Osaka has made a remarkable return to the US Open semifinals for the first time since 2020, achieving this milestone shortly after giving birth to her daughter Shai in July 2023. After watching Coco Gauff play in the semifinals last year, Osaka set a personal goal to reach that stage again, which she accomplished by defeating top players including Gauff and Karolina Muchova. Osaka expressed emotional satisfaction, describing the moment as her dream coming true and highlighting the significance of competing as a mother. This marks her first Grand Slam semifinal appearance since winning the 2021 Australian Open, and she now faces Amanda Anisimova in the next round. Historically, Osaka has won every Grand Slam tournament once she reaches the quarterfinal stage, though she views this current run as uncharted territory and is focused on enjoying the experience. If she wins the final, Osaka would become the first player since Kim Clijsters to win a Grand Slam after giving birth, underscoring her impressive comeback in professional tennis.