Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka cruised into the semi-finals of the WTA Canadian Open on Wednesday, defeating 10th seed Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-2. Osaka, aiming for her first WTA Tour-level title since the 2021 Australian Open, needed only 68 minutes to secure her place in the next round. “I’m just having a lot of fun playing. I’m glad to be here,” Osaka said after the win.
Osaka’s triumph was a dominant one, with the Japanese star breaking Svitolina early to gain a 3-1 advantage in the opening set. She maintained control throughout, closing out the first set in just 38 minutes. The second set saw more of the same, with Osaka easily dispatching Svitolina to take the victory.
“I think I’ll be seeded in the US Open because I won my match. That was a really good goal for me. I’m just really excited,” Osaka added. This victory sets her up for a thrilling semi-final clash against Denmark’s Clara Tauson.
Clara Tauson Stuns Madison Keys in Emotional Win
Clara Tauson’s journey to the semi-finals was equally impressive. The 22-year-old stunned the reigning Australian Open champion Madison Keys with a 6-1, 6-4 victory. Tauson, who dedicated her win to her late grandfather, said, “Two days ago, my grandfather unfortunately passed away so I really wanted to win for him today.” She delivered a focused performance, never allowing Keys to mount a significant challenge.
The win marks Tauson’s third victory over a top-10 opponent in this tournament, following her earlier triumphs over Iga Swiatek and Keys. “She’s really tough,” said Osaka about Tauson. “I played her in Auckland this year. I had to stop halfway because I was injured. So I’m really excited that I’m healthy.”
Osaka Seeks First Title Since Maternity Leave Return
Osaka is aiming for her eighth career WTA title and her first since making her return to the Tour after maternity leave. Her last WTA-level title came at the 2019 China Open. “First title as a mom?” Osaka laughed, clearly motivated to lift another trophy as she continues her comeback.
Tauson Eyes Fourth WTA Title
Tauson, who previously won titles at the Lyon and Luxembourg Opens in 2021, as well as the Auckland Open this year, is now one win away from her second WTA 1000 final. Her strong form in Montreal has many speculating that she could claim her fourth WTA title.
Rybakina and Mboko Face Off in the Other Semi-final
In Wednesday’s other semi-final, Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion, will take on Canadian sensation Victoria Mboko. Rybakina defeated Mboko in their only previous meeting at Washington last month.
The WTA Canadian Open semi-finals are shaping up to be thrilling encounters, with Osaka, Tauson, Rybakina, and Mboko all vying for a chance at the coveted title.
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