MONTREAL — Naomi Osaka delivered a dominant performance at the National Bank Open in Montreal on Sunday, securing her place in the quarterfinals with a swift victory over Latvia’s Anastasija Sevastova. The match, which lasted just 56 minutes, marked Osaka’s second-fastest career win, showcasing her relentless form as she continues her comeback on the WTA Tour.
The former world No. 1, now ranked 25th after returning from maternity leave earlier this year, overwhelmed Sevastova with a 6-1, 6-2 scoreline. Osaka’s aggressive baseline play and precision serving left the Latvian scrambling, as she converted five of eight break points while saving all three she faced. "I felt really sharp today," Osaka said in her post-match interview. "I’ve been working hard on my movement, and it’s paying off."
A Statement Performance
Osaka’s victory was a statement to the field, reinforcing her status as a contender in Montreal. The Japanese star needed just 23 minutes to close out the first set, firing three aces and winning 86% of her first-serve points. Sevastova, a former top-20 player known for her crafty game, had no answers for Osaka’s power and consistency.
Key factors in Osaka’s dominance included:
- Serve efficiency: She landed 70% of her first serves, winning 80% of those points.
- Return pressure: Osaka attacked Sevastova’s second serve, winning 65% of those points.
- Minimal errors: She committed just 12 unforced errors compared to Sevastova’s 22.
The Road Back to the Top
Since returning to competition in January 2025, Osaka has steadily regained her rhythm. After early exits in her first three tournaments, she reached the semifinals in Berlin last month, signaling her resurgence. "Every match feels like progress," she told reporters. "I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m getting closer."
Her coach, Wim Fissette, praised her mental resilience: "Naomi’s mindset is different now. She’s playing with freedom, and that’s when she’s most dangerous." The Belgian coach, who reunited with Osaka this season after their successful partnership in 2020-21, has emphasized simplifying her game under pressure.
Quarterfinal Clash Ahead
Osaka will face either third-seeded Elena Rybakina or rising American Emma Navarro in the quarterfinals. A potential showdown with Rybakina, the 2024 Wimbledon champion, would be a marquee matchup. "I’m excited for the challenge," Osaka said. "Every match here is a chance to prove myself."
The Montreal crowd has embraced Osaka, who has frequently interacted with fans during changeovers. "The energy here is amazing," she smiled. "It reminds me why I love this sport."
Looking Ahead
With the US Open looming later this month, Osaka’s Montreal run is timely. The four-time Grand Slam champion has historically thrived on hard courts, and her current form suggests she could be a dark horse in New York. "I’m taking it one match at a time," she cautioned, "but my goal is always to win."
Tennis analysts have taken note of her resurgence. ESPN’s Pam Shriver remarked: "Naomi’s game is rounding into shape at the perfect moment. If she maintains this level, she’s a threat to anyone."
As Osaka advances, her blend of power and poise continues to captivate the tennis world. Sunday’s victory was another reminder of her ability to dominate when at her best—and a warning to her rivals that she’s far from finished.