In an early match at the National Bank Open, Elena Rybakina overcame a slow start to defeat Naomi Osaka 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-4 and secure a spot in the tournament’s semifinals. Rybakina, the second seed from Kazakhstan, broke Osaka’s serve at a crucial moment in the deciding set to clinch the victory at Sobeys Stadium.
The match was rescheduled due to Belinda Bencic’s withdrawal because of a hip injury, allowing fourth-seeded Coco Gauff to advance to the semifinals without playing. The intense Rybakina-Osaka showdown was moved up in the schedule and lasted two hours and 33 minutes, showcasing a back-and-forth battle between the two players.
Rybakina, known for her powerful serves, expressed her struggle to find her rhythm in the match but eventually managed to turn it around. She is set to face Gauff in the semifinals and anticipates a tough matchup against the talented opponent.
The other semifinal will feature ninth-seeded Elina Svitolina of Ukraine against seventh-seeded Iga Swiatek of Poland, both of whom secured their spots in the next round on Monday. The final of the $7.43-million US tournament is scheduled for Thursday.
Despite a valiant effort from Osaka, Rybakina’s resilience and strong performance led her to victory, securing her third WTA 1000 semifinal appearance of the season. Osaka, who reached the NBO final last year, faced a tough challenge against Rybakina but fell short in the end.
In the men’s singles competition, defending champion Ben Shelton advanced to the semifinals after defeating Jakub Mensik. Shelton, the fifth seed, showcased a dominant performance and expressed satisfaction with his form on the court. He will face Learner Tien in the next round, setting the stage for an exciting matchup between the two American players.
Additionally, Brandon Nakashima secured his place in the semifinals with a convincing win, ensuring a strong American presence in the next stage of the tournament. The men’s competition promises more thrilling matches as the players vie for a spot in the final.