Image Source: BBC
Rybakina produced a remarkable comeback in Toronto, recovering from a set and a break down to defeat Naomi Osaka in a dramatic Canadian Open quarter-final. The Kazakh player eventually prevailed 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 after two hours and 33 minutes.
Osaka appeared firmly in control during the opening stages. The four-time Grand Slam champion broke in the first game and took the opening set, then moved 4-2 ahead in the second against the 2022 Wimbledon and 2026 Australian Open champion.
However, Rybakina refused to let the match slip away. She recovered one break, stayed within touching distance of Osaka and then won three consecutive games to turn the momentum around. A tense tie-break went her way, allowing her to level the contest and force a deciding set.
Rybakina Completes a Stunning Toronto Fightback
The third set remained highly competitive, with both players searching for a decisive opening. Osaka earned four break points while leading 3-2, but she could not convert any of them. Rybakina held serve under pressure and immediately made Osaka pay in the following game.
That break proved crucial. Rybakina protected her advantage and closed out the match emphatically, sealing victory with her 15th ace. The result sends her into the semi-finals, where she will face Coco Gauff.
“I was just trying to fight,” Rybakina said after the match. “The first game was really tough because it cost me the set, and then in the second I was just trying to stay closer to the score, even if I’m losing. I’m super happy that I won this match.”
A Victory Built on Resilience
The victory was especially striking because of Rybakina’s difficulty finding consistency. She made 72 unforced errors, the highest number she has recorded in a match this season. Despite that, she maintained her composure at the most important moments and found enough power on serve to keep Osaka under pressure.
Her ability to recover from a difficult start could prove valuable in the latter stages of the Canadian Open. Rybakina was twice close to falling behind beyond recovery, first when Osaka controlled the opening set and again when the Japanese star led 4-2 in the second.
Instead, the match became a test of stamina and belief. Rybakina’s aggressive approach occasionally produced errors, but it also created the winners and aces needed to change the direction of the contest.
Osaka Withdraws From Cincinnati After Defeat
For Osaka, the loss was followed by another important announcement. She said she would withdraw from the Cincinnati Open, the final tournament before the US Open, because of fatigue.
The decision means Osaka will have additional time to recover before the year’s final Grand Slam. Her run in Toronto showed signs of encouraging form, but the demanding schedule and long matches appear to have taken a physical toll.
Meanwhile, Gauff advanced to the semi-finals without completing her quarter-final match. Her opponent, Belinda Bencic, withdrew because of a hip injury. That sets up an intriguing meeting between Gauff and Rybakina, two powerful competitors with contrasting routes into the last four.
- Rybakina defeated Osaka 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4.
- The match lasted two hours and 33 minutes.
- Rybakina made 72 unforced errors and hit 15 aces.
- She will play Coco Gauff in the semi-finals.
- Osaka withdrew from Cincinnati because of fatigue.
Swiatek and Svitolina Complete the Semi-Final Line-Up
The other Canadian Open semi-final will feature Iga Swiatek and Elina Svitolina. Swiatek advanced with a dominant 6-2, 6-1 win over Diana Shnaider, while Svitolina recovered from a slow start to beat Ekaterina Alexandrova 3-6, 6-0, 6-3.
With four major names remaining, the tournament has reached a compelling stage. Rybakina’s comeback has added further drama to a draw that now includes Grand Slam champions, rising contenders and players attempting to build momentum ahead of the US Open.
FAQs About Rybakina’s Canadian Open Comeback
Who did Rybakina beat in the Canadian Open quarter-final?
Rybakina defeated Naomi Osaka in three sets, winning 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4.
How did Rybakina turn the match around?
She recovered after trailing by a set and 4-2 in the second set, won three consecutive games and took the tie-break before breaking Osaka in the deciding set.
Who will Rybakina play next?
Rybakina will face Coco Gauff in the Canadian Open semi-finals.
Why is Naomi Osaka missing the Cincinnati Open?
Osaka said she was withdrawing from Cincinnati because of fatigue. The event is the final tournament before the US Open.
Who is playing in the other semi-final?
Iga Swiatek will meet Elina Svitolina after both players won their quarter-final matches.
