Anisimova Advances to US Open Final After Victory Over Osaka

NEW YORK: After rallying from a set behind, Amanda Anisimova triumphed over four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka with a score of 6-7(4), 7-6(3), 6-3 on Thursday. This victory secures Anisimova’s spot in the US Open final, where she will face Aryna Sabalenka.

Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player, secured her place in the final by defeating Jessica Pegula with a score of 4-6, 6-3, 6-4.

Osaka, a two-time New York champion, was competing in her first major semi-final since 2021 but did not perform at her peak at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The opening set saw both players exchange breaks twice in a tightly contested battle. Following a brief pause due to a line call by the automated system, Osaka gained momentum and clinched the set in a tiebreak when Anisimova’s shot landed in the net on set point.

However, Anisimova, the 23rd seed, struggled to maintain that momentum in the subsequent set. After a series of intense games, Anisimova seized control in the tiebreak to force a decisive set.

With a forehand winner, Anisimova surged to a 4-1 lead and maintained her composure to secure the win, earning her second consecutive Grand Slam final appearance.

Reflecting on her semi-final victory, the 24-year-old Anisimova expressed that it was a dream realized.

“It means the world,” Anisimova stated after reaching her first final at Flushing Meadows. “I am still processing it. It’s a dream come true. It has always been my dream to compete in the U.S. Open final, and I aspire to become the champion.”