Naomi Osaka has surged into the semifinals of the National Bank Open in Montreal, setting up a highly anticipated clash with Clara Tauson. Osaka's dominant performance against No. 10 seed Elina Svitolina, whom she defeated 6-2, 6-2, showcased her continued resurgence on the WTA tour. Tauson, the No. 16 seed, also displayed impressive form, dispatching No. 6 seed Madison Keys in straight sets, 6-1, 6-4.

Osaka's journey to the semifinals marks her best showing at a WTA 1000 tournament since reaching the final in Miami in 2022. After stepping away from tennis for 15 months and welcoming her daughter Shai in July 2023, the four-time Grand Slam champion is now seeking her eighth career title and her first since the 2021 Australian Open. Her confidence in her fitness and enjoyment of her new coach, Tomasz Wiktorowski, have been key factors in her recent success.

In her quarterfinal match against Svitolina, Osaka capitalized on Svitolina's struggles with her serve, converting three of four break-point opportunities. Osaka's own service game was particularly strong, as she won 16 of 18 points in efficient service games and did not face a break point. This dominant performance underscores Osaka's growing confidence and form as she progresses through the tournament.

Clara Tauson has been making waves in Montreal, demonstrating that her breakthrough is sustainable. Tauson dominated Keys, converting three of six break point opportunities while saving all three she faced. Before defeating Keys, Tauson ended Iga Swiatek's nine-match winning streak with a 7-6(1), 6-3 victory. Tauson has not lost a set at the WTA 1000 event. Tauson's powerful performance has secured her a top-15 ranking for the first time in her career.

Tauson dedicated her victory over Keys to her grandfather, Peter, who recently passed away. She revealed that he had been a major supporter throughout her career, even coaching her and driving her to practices. This emotional backdrop adds another layer to Tauson's impressive run in Montreal.

The other semifinal will feature Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko against No. 9 seed Elena Rybakina of Kazakhstan. Mboko, playing in her first main draw at the National Bank Open, has had an incredible run, defeating five higher-ranked opponents, including top seed Coco Gauff. Her performance guarantees her a rise into the WTA's top 50, a significant jump from starting the year outside the top 300.

The Osaka-Tauson semifinal promises to be a compelling match between two players in excellent form. Osaka's experience and powerful game will be tested by Tauson's momentum and emotional drive.