NEW YORK — Under the bright lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium, in a match that felt more like a final than a third-round encounter, Naomi Osaka delivered a stunning statement.
The two-time US Open champion, continuing her inspiring return to the sport after maternity leave, produced her most impressive victory yet, dismantling third seed and reigning US Open champion Coco Gauff 6-4, 6-3 on Saturday night.
The highly anticipated rematch of their emotional 2018 US Open final—which Osaka won in straight sets—lived up to its billing, but it was the 26-year-old Japanese star who once again showcased her formidable big-match temperament and devastating power.
A Clash of Generations and Styles
From the first ball, the match was a compelling contrast in styles. Gauff’s incredible athleticism and defensive prowess were pitted against Osaka’s aggressive, first-strike tennis. On this night, offense triumphed over defense.
Osaka’s serve, one of the best weapons in the women’s game, was nearly unbreakable. She fired 10 aces and won a staggering 88% of points behind her first serve, giving Gauff no opportunity to gain a foothold.
“I think I just focused really hard today,” Osaka said in her post-match interview. “I know she’s a great player and I know she’s going to fight for every point, so I knew I had to serve well and just try to be as aggressive as I could.”
Masterful Performance Under Pressure
What was most striking about Osaka’s performance was her clinical precision on the biggest points. While Gauff struggled with her forehand, Osaka played nearly flawless tennis, hitting 24 winners to just 15 unforced errors.
She broke Gauff’s serve in the opening game of the match and never looked back, maintaining constant pressure. Even when Gauff threatened to mount a comeback, saving break points to hold for 4-3 in the second set, Osaka responded immediately.
She crushed a backhand return winner to break for a 5-3 lead and then coolly served out the match to love, sealing the victory with a service winner out wide.
The Weight of the Moment
For Gauff, the defeat was a disappointing end to her title defense, but she was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Osaka’s superior play. “She played amazing,” Gauff said. “I was definitely not playing my best tennis today. She didn’t really give me anything.”
The match was a poignant full-circle moment for both players. Six years ago, a tearful 15-year-old Gauff was comforted by a 20-year-old Osaka after their first Grand Slam meeting. This time, the respect was just as palpable, but the emotions were channeled differently.
Osaka, now a mother, spoke about her changed perspective and what these moments mean to her now. “I’m just taking it all in. I remember sitting in this room two years ago and right now I’m just happy to be a tennis player.”
A Champion's Mindset Returns
The victory signals a dramatic return to form for Osaka, who has openly discussed her struggles with motivation and mental health in the past. The joy and freedom with which she played against a top opponent suggest a player rediscovering her love for the game.
Her coach, Wim Fissette, noted the significance of the win. “This is the Naomi everyone knows,” he said. “When she plays with this confidence and focus, she is incredibly difficult to beat. This is a huge step for her.”
The keys to her dominant performance were clear:
- Serve Dominance: 88% first-serve points won
- Aggressive Returning: Constant pressure on Gauff’s service games
- Controlled Aggression: A positive winner-to-error ratio
- Mental Fortitude: Winning all crucial break points
Looking Ahead in the Tournament
With the win, Osaka advances to the fourth round of a major for the first time since the 2022 Australian Open. She will face another tough test against 13th seed Maria Sakkari of Greece.
Based on her current form, she immediately becomes a serious threat to win the title. When asked what this victory means for her confidence, Osaka was both confident and reflective.
“I’m not sure if I’m back,” she said with a smile. “I’m just taking it one match at a time. I’m just happy to be playing on this court again. These are the moments I play tennis for.”
A Statement to the Tennis World
Naomi Osaka’s commanding victory over Coco Gauff was more than just a third-round win; it was a declaration. It announced to the rest of the tour that the four-time Grand Slam champion, with her serene demeanor and ferocious ball-striking, is once again a force to be reckoned with.
She has navigated the immense pressure of her comeback, embraced the challenge of facing the sport’s brightest young star on its biggest stage, and emerged not just victorious, but dominant.
As the New York crowd roared its approval, it was clear: Naomi Osaka isn’t just back on the tour; she’s back in the conversation for the biggest prizes the game has to offer, playing for the moments that define a champion.