A Clash of Comebacks: Anisimova Triumphs Over Osaka in U.S. Open Semifinals

In a riveting showdown at the U.S. Open semifinals, American tennis star Amanda Anisimova faced off against Japan’s Naomi Osaka, both of whom have been on remarkable journeys of resilience and recovery. The match, which took place on the night of September 5, 2025, saw Anisimova triumph with a score of 6-7 (4), 7-6 (3), 6-3, marking her first advance to the U.S. Open finals.

The nearly three-hour battle was nothing short of electrifying, with both players showcasing their impressive skills and determination. “Sometimes, I was like, ‘How are we making these shots?’” Anisimova remarked after the match, highlighting the extraordinary level of play on display.

Anisimova’s victory sets the stage for a highly anticipated final against defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Jessica Pegula in a rematch of last year’s final. As Anisimova prepares for this significant moment in her career, her journey to the final has been filled with challenges and triumphs.

Both Anisimova and Osaka have faced their own battles with mental health in recent years, taking breaks from the sport to focus on their well-being. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, took time off in 2021 due to anxiety and depression. After giving birth to her daughter in 2023, she returned to the court unranked, making her path to the semifinals all the more impressive. Currently ranked 24th, Osaka’s recent performance has reignited her competitive spirit, culminating in her first Grand Slam semifinal appearance since winning the title in 2020.

Anisimova, at 24 years old, also faced significant obstacles, including injuries and the emotional toll of her father’s sudden death. After announcing an indefinite leave from the sport in 2023, she took time to recharge and rediscover her passion for tennis. Her comeback has been marked by significant achievements, including a stunning upset over world No. 2 Iga Świątek in the quarterfinals.

The narratives surrounding both players serve as a testament to their resilience and the broader conversation about mental health in sports. As Jackie Johnston, a women’s sports content creator, aptly put it, “It’s exactly like a movie.” The fact that both players reached this high-stakes stage is a victory in itself, illuminating the importance of mental health support for athletes.

Osaka’s journey has sparked important discussions about self-care in sports. She has emphasized that prioritizing mental health is vital, advising younger athletes that “self-care should not be viewed as a weakness.” The U.S. Open has also taken steps to support players’ mental well-being, introducing quiet rooms for athletes starting in 2021.

As Anisimova and Osaka continue their respective journeys, their stories resonate far beyond the tennis court. They symbolize the power of resilience, the importance of mental health, and the ongoing evolution of sports culture. Whether Anisimova can claim the U.S. Open title or Osaka can return to her former glory, one thing is clear: their journeys are far from over, and their impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.