Anisimova Advances to US Open Final After Victory Over Osaka

NEW YORK: Amanda Anisimova rallied from a set behind to defeat four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka 6-7(4), 7-6(3), 6-3 on Thursday. This win secures Anisimova’s spot in the US Open final against Aryna Sabalenka.

Sabalenka, the world’s top-ranked player, reached the final by overcoming 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 seemed off her peak form at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

The opening set saw both players exchanging breaks twice in a tight contest. Following a brief interruption due to a line call from the automated system, Osaka gained momentum and won the set in a tiebreak after Anisimova’s shot landed in the net on set point.

However, Anisimova, the 23rd seed, couldn’t maintain that advantage in the subsequent set. After a thrilling 12 games, Anisimova seized control in the tiebreak, forcing a decisive third set.

Anisimova surged to a 4-1 lead with a forehand winner and maintained her composure to secure the victory, reaching her second consecutive Grand Slam final.

The 24-year-old Anisimova expressed her excitement about the semi-final victory, describing it as a dream come true.

“It means the world,” Anisimova stated after reaching her first final at Flushing Meadows. “I’m still trying to process it. It’s truly a dream come true. Reaching the U.S. Open final has always been a dream, and now I hope to become the champion.”

The highly anticipated women’s singles US Open final is scheduled to take place at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Saturday.