In a highly anticipated fourth-round clash at the 2025 US Open, Naomi Osaka delivered a commanding performance, defeating Coco Gauff 6-3, 6-2 on September 1 at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The matchup, featuring two former US Open champions, marked their sixth career meeting and a much-anticipated rematch of their memorable 2019 encounter at Flushing Meadows.
Osaka, the No. 23 seed, showcased her trademark aggressive baseline play and powerful serving, capitalizing on Gauff’s uncharacteristic errors. The 27-year-old, who has been making a remarkable comeback since returning to the tour after a 2023 hiatus, broke Gauff early in the first set and maintained control throughout. Gauff, the No. 3 seed and 2023 US Open champion, struggled with her serve, committing six double faults
and 16 unforced errors in the first set alone. Osaka secured the set 6-3 after a crucial break, sealed by another Gauff double fault.
The second set saw Osaka elevate her game even further, breaking Gauff twice to clinch a 6-2 victory. Despite flashes of brilliance from 21-year-old Gauff, including a stunning crosscourt backhand that drew applause from the crowd and Osaka herself, the young American could not find a rhythm against Osaka’s relentless pressure.
This win marks Osaka’s first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance since her 2021 Australian Open triumph, a significant milestone
in her comeback journey. After the match, Osaka reflected on the moment: “I had so much fun out here. I was in the stands two months after giving birth to my daughter, watching Coco. This is my favorite court.” She also praised Gauff’s composure and maturity: “The way she conducts herself is really special. To be a role model at such a young age is a gift.”
Fans were reminded of their 2019 encounter, where Osaka’s 6-3, 6-0 victory was followed by a heartfelt moment inviting a tearful Gauff to address the crowd—a gesture that resonated deeply with tennis enthusiasts.
Looking ahead, Osaka will face either Marta Kostyuk or Karolina Muchova in the quarterfinals as she chases her fifth Grand Slam title.
Congratulations to both athletes for an exhilarating and memorable match that showcased the talent and sportsmanship of the next generation of women’s tennis.
