Elena Rybakina overcame an early match time and a strong start by Naomi Osaka to secure a 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-4 victory at the National Bank Open, advancing to the semifinals. The match, which lasted two hours and 33 minutes, saw Rybakina break Osaka’s serve at 3-3 in the final set and hold on for the win at Sobeys Stadium.
The match was rescheduled earlier than planned due to Belinda Bencic’s withdrawal because of a hip injury. This change allowed fourth-seeded Coco Gauff to advance to the semifinals through a walkover.
Rybakina expressed her surprise at turning the match around, emphasizing its difficulty. Despite playing her previous matches during the day, she managed to adjust to the late-day light during the intense battle against Osaka.
The upcoming semifinals will feature Rybakina facing Gauff, with Rybakina acknowledging the challenge ahead against the formidable opponent. The other semifinal will see Elina Svitolina of Ukraine against Iga Swiatek of Poland, both having won their quarterfinal matches.
Unfortunately, Bencic, the 12th seed, had to withdraw after struggling with a hip injury. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, had a strong start, breaking serve in the opening game. However, Rybakina’s resilience and powerful serving ultimately secured her victory.
In the men’s singles, defending champion Ben Shelton progressed to the semifinals after defeating Jakub Mensik, setting up a clash with Learner Tien. Brandon Nakashima also secured a semifinal spot, ensuring three American men in the semifinals alongside Rafael Jodar, who will face Nakashima in their first Masters 1000 semifinal.