Their rivalry reignited in New York, six years after Osaka famously comforted a teenage Gauff in 2019. On Monday night at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Osaka seized control with precision and authority, eliminating the No. 3 seeded Gauff and channeling a remarkable comeback from maternity and mental health breaks. Her dominant return signals that the two time champion isn’t just back, she’s back in a big way.
Osaka’s technical mastery and consistency
From the opening service games, Osaka imposed her will on the match. She commited just 12 unforced errors versus Gauff’s 33 and served with near perfect execution.
The Japanese won 32 of her 38 service points and didn’t face a single break point. Moreover, Osaka exploited Gauff’s forehand, long identified as a weaker wing, helping her build and sustain momentum on the court.
A storybook rivalry rekindled
This match wasn’t just about skill, it was about narrative and growth. Gauff, now a two time Grand Slam champion, stood as tennis royalty in her own right.
Osaka, who was seeded 23rd, fought back toward the spotlight after life-altering challenges. Their mututal respect, sparked by Osaka’s gesture of kindness in 2019, is now a genuine sisterhood.
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