Naomi Osaka Reaches Canadian Open Semi-Finals with Dominant Straight-Sets Win
Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, has advanced to the semi-finals of the Canadian Open for the first time in her career, defeating Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-2 in a commanding performance on August 5, 2025, at the Rogers Cup in Montreal. This marked Osaka’s first WTA 1000 semi-final appearance since the Miami Open in 2022, showcasing a strong return to form ahead of the US Open later this month.
Osaka, aged 27, controlled the match with aggressive groundstrokes and precise court positioning, effectively neutralizing Svitolina’s attempts to shift momentum. Despite facing five break points, Osaka saved four of them, maintaining composure and capitalizing on her opportunities. The match lasted just 68 minutes, with Osaka breaking Svitolina’s serve four times and allowing only a single break of her own serve early in the first set.
“I think for me, I’m just having a lot of fun playing and I’m really glad to be here,” Osaka said after the win at the Montreal venue. “Someone told me it’s been seven years since I’ve played here in Montreal, so I just want to thank you guys for having me.”
This milestone reflects a significant progression for Osaka, as she rides momentum from solid recent performances and looks ahead to the US Open, where she expects to be seeded based on this result. “I think I’ll be seeded in the US Open now because I won my match. That was a really big goal for me and I’m just really excited,” she remarked with a smile during her on-court interview.
Osaka is set to face the 16th-seeded Danish player Clara Tauson in the semi-finals. Tauson recently stunned sixth seed and Australian Open champion Madison Keys with a 6-1, 6-4 upset, making this a compelling clash between two in-form competitors. Osaka and Tauson previously met in January 2025 at the Auckland AS Classic final, where Osaka had to retire due to injury after winning the first set. “She’s really tough,” Osaka acknowledged about Tauson, adding, “I’m really excited that I’m healthy now, and I hope it’s a great match for everyone who comes to watch.”
The Canadian Open represents a key preparation event for the upcoming US Open. For Osaka, reaching the semi-finals signals an encouraging return to consistent high-level competition after a period marked by injury and personal commitments, including the birth of her daughter in 2023. Tennis experts recognize Osaka’s mental and physical resilience, with her ability to perform under pressure highlighted as a major asset.
Reflecting on the match, former champions and analysts praised Osaka’s dominance and tactical maturity. The win not only ensures invaluable ranking points but also heightens expectations for a deep run at the US Open, a tournament Osaka has won twice (2018, 2020).
In summary, Naomi Osaka’s straightforward 6-2, 6-2 victory over Elina Svitolina to reach the Canadian Open semi-finals marks a significant step in her comeback trail, fueled by improved fitness, strategic play, and growing confidence. Her upcoming match against Clara Tauson promises to be a captivating contest for fans and a pivotal moment in her 2025 campaign.
Next steps for Osaka involve preparing for this semi-final clash with Tauson and continuing her momentum toward the US Open, where she aims to add another major title to her illustrious career.
