Christine Jean-Pierre
CSMS Magazine
Naomi Osaka delivered an emphatic performance in the fourth round of the 2025 US Open on September 1, defeating third-seed Coco Gauff in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. This marked Osaka’s first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance in over four years—since her 2021 Australian Open title—and a striking return to form following significant personal and professional challenges.
From the outset, the Haitian-Japanese tennis player dominated. She broke early in the match and maintained consistent control, while Gauff struggled with her serve and committed numerous unforced errors. Serving at an exceptional clip—winning 84% of her service points and 94% on first serves—Osaka never faced a break point and converted all four break opportunities she earned.
Emotion was high in the post-match reflections. Osaka, visibly moved, acknowledged the immense journey she’s been on—overcoming mental-health struggles, a hiatus, and maternity leave—and emphasized how much fun she had playing again. “I had so much fun out here,” she shared, expressing gratitude to her team and the joy of being back on her favorite court.
Coco Gauff, too, was candid about her reaction. She admitted to feeling “discombobulated” during the match, struggling with nerves and inconsistencies in her return game. Afterward, she “kind of broke down” emotionally, yet remained optimistic, highlighting improvements in her serve and vowing to bounce back stronger.
Moreover, Osaka’s respect for her opponent shone through. In her on-court interview, Osaka praised Gauff as a remarkable role model: “I look up to her a lot … I have all the respect in the world for her.”
As Osaka advances to face Karolina Muchova in the quarterfinals, her latest triumph underscores a triumphant return—not just to competition, but to genuine joy and belief in her game.
