Naomi Osaka Returns to US Open Quarterfinals After 14-Month Break

Naomi Osaka has made a remarkable return to Grand Slam tennis after a 14-month hiatus following the birth of her daughter in 2023, reaching the 2025 US Open quarterfinals with a commanding victory over Coco Gauff. This marks her first Grand Slam quarterfinal since the 2021 Australian Open, a stage where she has previously won all four of her major titles, reigniting hopes for another championship run. Despite struggles with form and confidence during her comeback, improvements in fitness and a new coaching partnership have helped her rediscover the dominant, clean ball-striking game that once made her nearly untouchable on hard courts. Osaka revealed she has contemplated retirement given the challenges but affirmed her strong emotional connection to tennis and her determination to continue competing. Her next opponent at the US Open will be Czech 11th seed Karolina Muchova, setting up a clash of contrasting playing styles. Analysts and Osaka herself emphasize the mental and physical progress she has made, fueling optimism for her potential to reclaim Grand Slam glory.