The nightcap in New York promises fireworks. Naomi Osaka is back in a major semifinal for the first time since her return—and she looks like a four-time Grand Slam champion again. On the other side, Amanda Anisimova is riding the wave of a career-defining run, fresh off taking out the world No.2. Two big hitters, one shot at the final.
📍 Arthur Ashe Stadium, Sep 4, Not before 8:30 PM (local)
1. Anisimova is 2–0 vs Osaka
Amanda Anisimova leads their head-to-head, winning both previous encounters in 2022. Their Australian Open clash went the distance, with Anisimova saving two match points before closing it out. Osaka still hasn’t cracked her code.
2. Osaka Never Loses a Slam Semifinal
With commanding wins over Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova, Osaka is showing the form that has defined her Grand Slam legacy. Here’s the stat that matters: every time Osaka has reached a Slam semifinal, she’s gone on to win the title. She’s sharp, mentally composed, and serving big—looking every bit like a future five-time major champion.
3. Anisimova Just Dethroned Swiatek
Her straight-sets win over world No.2 Iga Swiatek was the shock of the quarterfinals. Coming just weeks after a humbling Wimbledon final loss, Anisimova’s turnaround speaks volumes about her mental strength and hunger.
4. Both Players Are All-Offense
Osaka brings explosive serving and a thunderous forehand. Anisimova responds with her signature backhand and inside-out aggression. Expect short points, fast exchanges, and few breaks in rhythm—this match won’t be about defense.
5. It’s Experience vs Momentum
Osaka brings proven Grand Slam experience—every time she’s reached a semifinal, she’s gone on to lift the trophy. Anisimova, meanwhile, is riding the momentum of a resurgent season that includes a run to the Wimbledon 2025 final. While Osaka owns the titles, Anisimova has shown she can go deep at majors and handle the pressure. This is a battle between a comeback queen and a player chasing redemption. But her fearless streak could flip the script.
6. The Winner Will be the Underdog in the Final
With either world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka or top-seeded American Jessica Pegula waiting in the final, the winner of Osaka vs Anisimova will enter Sunday as the underdog. For Osaka, it’s a shot at Grand Slam No. 5 after a long road back. For Anisimova, it’s a chance to redeem her Wimbledon heartbreak and prove she belongs among the sport’s elite. Either way, they’ll face the final with fire—and nothing to lose.
7. This is the Match of Contrasts—and Parallels
Osaka, 27, is a comeback queen returning to the spotlight. Anisimova, 24, is chasing her own redemption arc. Both have overcome personal setbacks. Both know how to hit under pressure. Only one gets a shot at Saturday glory.
Our prediction: Anisimova in 3 sets.
Preview of other US Open Semi-final between Sabalenka and Pegula.