With Elena Rybakina’s last-minute withdrawal from the Pan Pacific Open, it’s this semifinal — Sofia Kenin vs Belinda Bencic — that now takes center stage in Tokyo. The matchup between two former major champions suddenly carries extra weight: one of them will not only book a place in the final but also seize the spotlight left vacant by the top seed’s exit.
Bencic’s Revival and Narrow Escape
Bencic’s campaign nearly ended in the quarters, but the Swiss survived a marathon against Karolina Muchova, saving match points before clawing through 3–6, 7–5, 7–5. It was the kind of stubborn performance that defined her pre-maternity career.
The 2020 Olympic champion has pieced together a quietly solid season, balancing motherhood with tour life. Though her form has been uneven since her Abu Dhabi title early in the year, Tokyo presents another chance to steady her footing and chase a first title since returning to full rhythm.
Kenin’s Unpredictable Brilliance
Across the net, Sofia Kenin continues her unpredictable revival. Her victory over Ekaterina Alexandrova, a player hovering around the top 10, underscored her ability to rise when least expected. Kenin’s backhand remains her tactical anchor — a weapon that can expose Bencic’s forehand under pressure.
Their past meetings have favored the American, including a dominant 6–0, 6–3 win in Charleston. This one should be closer, but Kenin’s timing and shot tolerance could again tilt the balance. With both rediscovering belief, their semifinal feels like a genuine 50-50 battle — and now, with Rybakina gone, the path to the Tokyo title is suddenly wide open.
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