‘Surprised I’m not crying’, Naomi Osaka reacts after reaching US Open semifinal

Naomi Osaka delivered a powerful performance in the US Open quarterfinals, defeating Karolina Muchova on Wednesday, September 3, 2025.

The Japanese tennis player secured 6-4, 7-6 (7-3) and earned her spot in the US Open semifinals, marking a significant milestone in her return to tennis after motherhood.

In July 2023, the two-time US Open champion became a mother, announcing a 14-month break from the championship.

Playing in her first Grand Slam quarterfinal since winning the 2021 Australian Open, the 27-year-old was visibly emotional after the match.

“It's my first time in a semi now (since becoming a mother), I was sitting up there watching and hoping I could have the opportunity to play on this court again. This is like my dream is coming true,” she shared.

Osaka said in her on-court interview, “It means so much. I’m surprised I’m not crying.”

“There’s been so much hard work you guys haven’t seen. I’m just grateful to my team. Hopefully, you guys will come and watch my next round,” she added.

With Osaka qualifying for the semifinals, the clash will be against American Amanda Anisimova, who delivered a remarkable performance earlier in the day by defeating second seed Iga Swiatek securing 6-4, 6-3 win.

If Osaka defeats Anisimova, she will become the first player to reach a Grand Slam final after becoming a mother since Victoria Azarenka at the 2020 US Open.