Montreal, August 12: Elena Rybakina staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Naomi Osaka 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-4, securing her place in the semifinals of the Canadian Open.
Osaka started strong, breaking Rybakina’s serve in her first service game. The world number two had a chance to extend her lead in the next game but saved three break points. Rybakina failed to secure any break points for the remainder of the set, allowing Osaka to take the first set 6-4.
In the second set, Rybakina regained her form. Despite being broken in two of her first three service games, the Australian Open champion fought back, earning two breaks of her own and reaching a tiebreak, which she won. This set the stage for a decisive third set.
The turning point in the thrilling final set came when Rybakina faced triple break points while trailing 2-3. The 27-year-old rallied, saving four break points and stealing the momentum with a crucial hold.
As the match progressed, Osaka began to lose her composure. After being broken while trailing 3-4, Rybakina closed out the match confidently, hitting three aces to secure her semifinal spot.
After the match, Rybakina stated, “I was just trying to fight. The first game of the match was very tough. I lost the set, and then in the second, I was just trying to stay close on the score, even though I was losing. I’m very happy I won this match.”
Rybakina will face American Coco Gauff in the semifinals.
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