Osaka Advances to Montreal Final, Eyes First Title Since 2021

In Montreal, Naomi Osaka, formerly ranked number one in the world, secured a spot in the final of the National Bank Open. She achieved this by defeating Clara Tauson of Denmark with a score of 6-2, 7-6(7) in the semifinals of the WTA 1000 tournament.

This victory sets the stage for a final match on Thursday against Victoria Mboko, an 18-year-old player from the local area. Osaka, now 27 years old, is aiming for her first WTA tour title since her win at the Australian Open in February 2021.

Osaka, currently holding the 49th position in the world rankings, previously faced Tauson, who is ranked 19th, in the final of the WTA 250 ASB Classic in January. In that earlier match, Osaka had to withdraw due to an abdominal injury after winning the first set.

Osaka demonstrated her skill on her favored hard court surface, utilizing strong ground strokes to dominate the first set, winning four consecutive games. Despite Tauson's comeback in the second set, Osaka prevailed. Tauson managed to convert only two of her break point opportunities, ultimately sending a forehand into the net on match point, allowing Osaka to advance to the final after a match lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Osaka expressed her appreciation for the support from the crowd, acknowledging the late hour and hoping for their continued presence in the final. She anticipates a challenging atmosphere in the final against Mboko, who is ranked 85th.

Osaka anticipates a lively atmosphere in the final, recognizing Mboko's status as a Canadian player. She expressed her appreciation for the crowd's investment in the match and hoped for some support from the audience as well.