Amanda Anisimova defeated Naomi Osaka in a gripping three-set battle to book her place in the US Open final, setting up a clash with defending champion Aryna Sabalenka on Saturday.
Anisimova triumphed 6-7 7-6 6-3 against Osaka, converting her third match point after almost three hours amid a barrage of winners, to deny the former US Open champion a place in her first grand slam final in almost five years.
In a topsy-turvy, nervy semi-final where the momentum of the match swung from end to end, the American seized control of the second-set tiebreak and surged to the finish line.
She is through to her first US Open final and second grand slam final in a row following her 6-0 6-0 defeat to Iga Swiatek at Wimbledon, a loss she avenged in the quarter-finals.
Anisimova will play defending champion and World No 1 Sabalenka, who she upset in the Wimbledon semi-finals. Sabalenka earlier defeated Jessica Pegula in another three-set thriller. Follow the latest scores, updates, analysis and reaction from the US Open below:
US Open LIVE: Latest scores and updates
- Amanda Anisimova defeats Amanda Anisimova in three-hour epic to reach US Open final
- Anisimova prevails 6-7 7-6 6-3, converting third match point, to reach first US Open final
- Aryna Sabalenka closes out thriller to defeat Jessica Pegula
- Sabalenka returns to US Open final with 4-6 6-3 6-4 win
Tennis legend Bjorn Borg reveals he has been living with prostate cancer
16:15 , Jack RathbornTennis legend Bjorn Borg, who won 11 grand slam titles, has revealed in an upcoming biography that he has been living with prostrate cancer for the past two years.
Born, 69, told the Associated Press in an interview that he was diagnosed with an "extremely aggressive" prostate cancer and is in remission after undergoing an operation in 2024.
The five-time Wimbledon winner writes in his memoir, ‘Heartbeats’, “I have a new opponent in cancer — one I can't control. But I'm going to beat it. I'm not giving up. I fight like every day is a Wimbledon final. And those usually go pretty well, don't they?”
Tennis legend Bjorn Borg reveals he has been living with prostate cancer
Chris Evert on Novak Djokovic
15:45 , Jack Rathborn“Over the past 50 years, I've seen and studied every champion in tennis. I've never seen anyone like Novak Djokovic,” says the 18-time grand slam champion.
“The combination of mental, physical, and emotional strength that goes into every shot is unmatched."
Carlos Alcaraz has yet to beat Novak Djokovic on a hard-court
15:15 , Jack RathbornThe big stat sticking out ahead of today’s semi-final is that Alcaraz has never beaten Djokovic on a hard court. He has beaten him twice at Wimbledon, and once in their first meeting on clay in Madrid. This will be their first meeting at the US Open.
Djokovic v Alcaraz head-to-head
2025: Australian Open quarter-final (outdoor hard) - Djokovic won 4-6 6-4 6-3 6-4
2024: Olympics final (clay) - Djokovic won 7-6 7-6
2024: Wimbledon final (grass) - Alcaraz won 6-2 6-2 7-6
2023: ATP Finals semi-final (indoor hard) - Djokovic won 6-3 6-2
2023: Cincinnati final (outdoor hard) - Djokovic won 5-7 7-6 7-6
2023: Wimbledon final (grass) - Alcaraz won 1-6 7-6 6-1 2-6 6-4
2023: French Open semi-final (clay) - Djokovic won 6-2 5-7 6-1 6-1
2022: Madrid semi-final (clay) Alcaraz won 6-7 7-5 7-6
Novak Djokovic’s ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ celebration dance at US Open explained
14:45 , Jack RathbornNovak Djokovic pulled out a dance in celebration after his victory over Taylor Fritz at the US Open 2025 for his daughter’s birthday.
The Serbian, who has advanced to the semi-finals aged 38 and extended his dominant record over the American to 11-0, unveiled some dance moves to music from the hit movie "KPop Demon Hunters".
Djokovic detailed how his daughter, Tara, who turned 8 on Tuesday, was a huge fan of the Netflix smash hit film.
Novak Djokovic’s US Open celebration dance for daughter explained
Novak Djokovic hopes body will not let him down in US Open semi-final
14:15 , Jack RathbornNovak Djokovic’s most formidable opponent at the US Open on Friday may not be Carlos Alcaraz, but his own body.
Following a tense four-set victory over Taylor Fritz on Tuesday night, Djokovic stated: "The next couple of days is really key for me to get my body in shape and ready to battle five sets if it’s needed.
“I just would really love that. I know that my best tennis is going to be required, but I’d rise to the occasion. Normally I like to play the big matches on a big stage. It’s just that I’m not really sure how the body is going to feel.
But I’m going to do my very best with my team to be fit for that."
Djokovic hopes body will not let him down in US Open semi-final with Alcaraz
Carlos Alcaraz and the five shots that made a US Open masterpiece
13:45 , Jack RathbornAs if still stung by his second-round exit to Botic van de Zandschulp in New York last season, Carlos Alcaraz is through to the US Open semi-finals without dropping a set.
He’s 15 played, 15 won, but the five-time grand slam champion has been consistent while retaining the magic in his game, as he delivered 28 winners to 17 unforced errors across less than two hours of a sublime 6-4 6-2 6-4 win over Jiri Lehecka in the quarter-finals.
“I'll just say I think that today I kind of met the grand slam version of Carlos,” Lehecka said later. “He was everywhere. He always managed to do something special.”
Carlos Alcaraz and the five shots that made a US Open masterpiece
Naomi Osaka on working with new coach Tomasz Wiktorowski and momentum moving forward
13:15 , Jack Rathborn“I think everything is a process. Obviously this is my second tournament with Tomasz. I have to take that into account. I have to understand what my level is, what I was able to achieve last year, and I think if I put everything into perspective, I feel like I did really good this year.
“Also, I just like to grow year from year. Even before playing this tournament, I already exceeded my expectations. Yeah, I was kind of just thinking about it, but my worst year is someone's best year, in retrospect. So I just have to find ways to trick my mind into being positive.
“Yeah, I would say it's not major. I definitely did feel like I think I'm just getting older, like a little bit of aches and pains. But it would be weird to get to this stage of the tournament and not feel something. Yeah, I just consider that, like, the price of playing really high-level tennis.”
Naomi Osaka sets sights on Australian Open
12:45 , Jack Rathborn“ I mean, like, even at my quote, unquote worst, I have never played a tournament and thought that I would lose in the first round. If I enter a tournament, I want to win.
“So I would say, like, getting far in the US Open was definitely a confidence booster. Doing well in Montreal was a confidence booster, but the season is not done yet. I honestly got a little farther than I thought I would. I just wanted to be seeded in slams, but now I don't know what ranking I'm at, but I think I'm kind of getting up there.
“Yeah, obviously I want to do well in Australia. I always happen to play well there. So doing well in the Asian swing, and then closing off the rest of the year is my goal now.”
Amanda Anisimova on coming back from Wimbledon heartache
12:15 , Jack Rathborn“I think it just shows that I have worked really hard, especially on my mental game and not giving up. Like today, I could have easily said, oh, she's playing better than me, and I can't really do anything. I really tried to find a way any way I could to stay in the match, even though it was extremely tough, and she was playing really great tennis.
“Yeah, I think I have really worked on myself to really be able to handle those moments and to believe in myself, even when it feels like what is there to believe in, in a way, like, when you're not playing that well. Yeah, I think I have really done a better job of that, and especially since the Wimbledon final. I think I have really shifted with my attitude, as well.”
How Novak Djokovic tormented and embarrassed Taylor Fritz to extend US Open nightmare
11:50 , Jack RathbornNovak Djokovic advanced to his 14th US Open semi-final, and 53rd grand slam semi-final, with a win over Taylor Fritz in the semi-finals.
It extended Djokovic’s record against Fritz to 11-0 and his record against American men at the US Open to 16-0.
But Djokovic admitted he was “lucky” to escape with a four-set win as Fritz missed his chances...
How Novak Djokovic tormented and embarrassed Taylor Fritz to extend US Open nightmare
Novak Djokovic v Carlos Alcaraz head to head
11:20 , Jack RathbornThis will be the ninth match between Djokovic and Alcaraz and their five over best of five sets. Djokovic currently leads the head to head with five wins to three, and won their last meeting at the Australian Open quarter-finals.
Djokovic has also won all four times they have met on a hard-court. This will be their first encounter at the US Open. Alcaraz’s previous two wins over Djokovic have come in the Wimbledon final, in 2023 and 2024.
Naomi Osaka on losing control against Amanda Anisimova
10:50 , Jack Rathborn“I mean, it's kind of hard to say. I think, you know, you can kind of only live and learn, and for me, obviously I didn't remember it until you said it, so now I'm thinking about it.
“Yeah, I mean, I went to that match knowing she's one of the best returners in the world. Obviously I feel like I'm one of the best servers. It's a little unfortunate, but also, I can't really say I have played, like, many matches in the semis of a slam since I've been back. I would say she has a little bit under her belt more than me.
“Yeah, hopefully I can be in this position one more time and see if I learn something.”
Amanda Anisimova on combatting Aryna Sabalenka's behaviour on court
10:20 , Jack Rathborn“I don't really care what my opponent is doing. I wouldn't say she's also overly emotional. I feel like she's pretty normal.
But, yeah, she's a huge fighter. When I play her, I'm really focused on myself, not really looking at what she's doing, like, the whole time. But, yeah, it's insignificant to me what she does.”
US Open order of play - Friday 5 September
09:50 , Jack RathbornArthur Ashe Stadium
(all times BST)
From 5pm
Women’s doubles final: [1} K. Siniakova / T. Townsend vs G. Dabrowski / E. Routliffe [3]
from 8pm
[7] Novak Djokovic vs Carlos Alcaraz [2}
Not before midnight
[1} Jannik Sinner vs Felix Auger-Aliassime [25]
Amanda Anisimova on hiding her pattern of play against Naomi Osaka
09:20 , Jack Rathborn“I feel like today I was playing the way I would normally play. Of course, we're going to play very fast tennis, because she also hits the ball really hard, so it's just really back and forth.
“But it was nothing really out of the ordinary I did today. I feel like all of our matches have been really tough battles, and every single time we have played, the level has been really high.”
Naomi Osaka on combatting home support for Amanda Anisimova
08:50 , Jack Rathborn“I wouldn't say it's a bigger challenge than I expected, because I kind of knew that she's that type of player. It was just kind of funny at times, because there is no pattern to what she's doing. Like, it's kind of like she just hits at the empty court or whatever, and it usually goes in (smiling).
“So, yeah, I mean, obviously she went to the finals of Wimbledon, and now she's in the finals here, so it just shows that she's a really good player.”
Amanda Anisimova reacts to rollercoaster match against Naomi Osaka
08:19 , Jack Rathborn“It was a really tough match,” the American said. “Most of the time I thought that it's going to slip away from me, and I'm not going to make it into the final. At some points I was trying to accept that, as tough as that was.
“Yeah, and in the later moments of the second set I was trying to remind myself what was on the line and the opportunity I have.
“Yeah, I stepped onto the court, and I felt like I wasn't playing my tennis because I was nervous, and I was letting the stress get to me a little bit, but then I tried to dig deep and find my game. I feel like throughout the match I was able to find it more and more, and yeah, the most important thing was that I kept fighting.
“Then, yeah, obviously after the match, I mean, I'm happy and I'm relieved. Yeah, I want to go recover to get ready for the final (smiling).”
Amanda Anisimova sends message to Aryna Sabalenka with display of her new strength
07:56 , Jamie BraidwoodAmanda Anisimova fell to her knees and tapped on the blue hard court. With her dream of reaching a first final at the US Open accomplished, whatever magic that is unfolding in New York had worked its spell again.
Eight weeks after her 6-0 6-0 Wimbledon final defeat to Iga Swiatek, the 24-year-old from New Jersey has given herself another chance to win a grand slam title at the first opportunity. After avenging her defeat to Swiatek in the quarter-finals, Anisimova went one step further by overturning Naomi Osaka’s lead in a back-and-forth semi-final across almost three hours, setting up a final against the World No 1 Aryna Sabalenka.
Amanda Anisimova sends message to Aryna Sabalenka with display of her new strength
Naomi Osaka proud of herself after US Open run
07:37 , Jamie Braidwood“Honestly I don't feel sad,” she said. “It's really weird. I just feel like I did the best that I could. Honestly, it's kind of inspiring for me, because it makes me just want to train and try to get better, and hopefully, yeah, just give it my very best shot again and see what happens. But I think I can't be mad or upset at myself.”
Amanda Anisimova finishes US Open semi-final with 50 winners
07:22 , Jamie BraidwoodNaomi Osaka finished the match with 32 winners to 27 unforced errors, which is a very good final ratio.
But Amanda Anisimova finished the match with 50 winners to 45 unforced errors.
Anisimova was hitting far more winners to unforced errors in the second and third sets, as well, and played better the longer the match went on.
Amanda Anisimova v Aryna Sabalenka set for Saturday
07:07 , Jamie BraidwoodA little over eight weeks after they met in the Wimbledon semi-finals, Amanda Anisimova and Aryna Sabalenka will meet again in the US Open final.
Anisimova won that match to deny Sabalenka her first Wimbledon final, and leads the World No 1 in their head-to-head 6-3.
Sabalenka is aiming to become the first player to defend a US Open singles title since Serena Williams in 2014.
Amanda Anisimova's emotional reaction on match point
06:52 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova’s reaction to reaching the US Open final, dropping to her knees and tapping the court.
She’s been through a lot, in the last few months, and in the previous years. This is a huge moment for her.
'LET'S GO!' She says! pic.twitter.com/LEh1KA4qmU
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
Amanda Anisimova into 'dream' US Open final
06:37 , Jamie BraidwoodAmanda Anisimova is just 24 years old but has just reached back-to-back Wimbledon and US Open finals.
She’s the youngest player to do that since Serena Williams in 2002.
“It’s a dream come true,” Anisimova said. “I’ve been dreaming of a US Open final for, like, forever.
“The hope is to be the champion.”
Anisimova pushed all the way by Osaka in US Open epic
06:22 , Jamie BraidwoodAmanda Anisimova is asked how she came back to defeat Naomi Osaka.
“I don’t know,” she replies. “Naomi is playing amazing tennis. She’s back where she belongs. I told her that I’m so proud of her after having a baby and playing at this level. It’s insane. She was really giving me a run for the final. I wasn’t sure I’d make it past the finish line. I tried to dig deep.”
Amanda Anisimova's comeback from Wimbledon final defeat
06:07 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter losing a grand slam final 6-0 6-0, Amanda Anisimova will have the opportunity to win her first grand slam title at the very next try.
It won’t be easy against Aryna Sabalenka, but what an effort to be in that position.
Amanda Anisimova through to US Open final after thriller
05:58 , Jamie BraidwoodAn incredible battle. Two hours and 56 minutes, and the relief for Anisimova to get over the line is there for all to see. What an effort form both players.
Anisimova will return on Saturday for her first US Open final. The American will play defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, who she beat in the Wimbledon semi-finals eight weeks ago.
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 3-6 Amanda Anisimova
05:55 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova blasts through Osaka to bring the third match point!
This time Osaka can’t fend off the brilliant backhand into the corner!
Anisimova pulls it off! She is through to her first US Open final, with an epic win just short of three hours!
She falls onto her knees and kisses the court!
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 3-5 Amanda Anisimova*
05:53 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova double faults! Would you believe it! Now it’s break point to Osaka!
The defence from Osaka is incredible but Anisimova finds a way through.
But Osaka goes again and literally takes Anisimova off her feet with the forehand return! Anisimova finishes the point on her back!
A second break point: Anisimova finally gets the serve in play, and puts away the backhand winner!
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 3-5 Amanda Anisimova*
05:50 , Jamie BraidwoodThe ball sets up nicely for Anisimova and the backhand past Osaka brings up two match points!
WOW! Osaka saves the first with a forehand winner out wide!
Osaka lands the deep backhand return and Anisimova nets! Two match points saved!
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 3-5 Amanda Anisimova*
05:47 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka goes long on the first return, then Anisimova steps inside the baseline and connects with another sweet backhand winner down the line.
She’s two points away.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 3-5 Amanda Anisimova*
05:45 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka finds a couple of big first serves to stay in the match.
Over to Anisimova to serve for a place in her first US Open final.
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 2-5 Amanda Anisimova
05:41 , Jamie BraidwoodAwesome hold form Anisimova, who is getting better and better the longer the match goes on.
She moves Osaka from side to side and lasers a forehand that Osaka can’t return on the backhand.
Anisimova is serving well at the moment, which is a good sign if she needs to serve out the match.
First, Osaka needs to get through this game.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 2-4 Amanda Anisimova*
05:38 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova takes her winner count for the match up to 45 with a lovely inside-out forehand.
Osaka, though, finds some first serves but can’t hide her frustration as she thumps the ball away.
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 1-4 Amanda Anisimova
05:33 , Jamie BraidwoodWow. Anisimova is surging right now. She finds an ace down the middle and then picks apart a short ball from Osaka to power the winner.
Can Osaka respond?
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 1-3 Amanda Anisimova*
05:31 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka with a poor forehand miss on the opening point. Anisimova does not hesitate to attack the second serve and fires a winner.
There’s a shout from the crowd as Anisimova defends on the baseline and return deep to Osaka’s forehand. She finds the net and Osaka is not pleased with the shout.
Anisimova, though, is just too steady at the moment. She comes out on top in the rally as Osaka nets on the forehand! The first break of the third.
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 1-2 Amanda Anisimova
05:27 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova replies straight back with a dominant hold of her own. We saw very few of them in the first or second sets.
If both players hit their top level in the third this is going down as a classic.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 1-1 Amanda Anisimova*
05:25 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka’s serve stands up to the examination of Anisimova’s aggressive return.
There is rain thundering onto the closed roof above Arthur Ashe.
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 0-1 Amanda Anisimova
05:21 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova faces 0-30 in the opening game but finds an excellent wide serve when she needed it most.
Osaka barely moved for the wide serve on 40-30, as Anisimova took the opening game.
SECOND SET! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 (3-7) Amanda Anisimova
05:13 , Jamie BraidwoodWell, this has been extraordinary. And at two hours and 15 minutes, we’re not done yet.
It’s just gone past midnight in New York and we are heading the distance.
SECOND SET! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-7 (3-7) Amanda Anisimova
05:10 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova ruthlessly crushes the Osaka second serve for a clean backhand winner. Four set points!
OSAKA NETS AND WE”RE GOING TO A THIRD!
A backhand winner from Anisimova propels her to take the second-set tiebreak!
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
We head to a decider. pic.twitter.com/BqWRivGYnE
TIEBREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-6 (1-5) Amanda Anisimova
05:08 , Jamie BraidwoodWOW! One of the points of the match as both players trade their brilliant power.
Anisimova finishes it with the backhand winner down the line!
5-1.
TIEBREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-6 (1-4) Amanda Anisimova
05:06 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova off to a flyer. Osaka stares at the back of the court as she puts a second-serve return long.
Anisimova finds incredible depth to the Osaka forehand and forces another error.
Osaka gets on the board with a big serve out wide. 4-1.
TIEBREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-6 Amanda Anisimova
05:04 , Jamie BraidwoodOff to a tiebreak we go!
Anisimova stays alive, adding another backhand winner to the collection and getting her first serve in play. That could be the biggest factor as we head into the second-set tiebreak.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 6-5 Amanda Anisimova*
04:58 , Jamie BraidwoodOf course.
It’s brilliant from Anisimova, crushing her 13th forehand winner of the match, then pinning Osaka to the back of the court and drawing the mistake. 15-40.
Osaka is infuriated, shrugging to her box, but she finds big serving to save both break points!
Osaka finds the ace and then flashes a forehand down the line to earn a vital hold!
BREAK! *Naomi Osaka 7-6 5-5 Amanda Anisimova
04:54 , Jamie BraidwoodWould you believe it.
Osaka finds the edge of the line with a backhand winner. Then Anisimova puts her forehand into the net and it’s 0-40 to Osaka with the chance to stay in the set.
Anisimova double-faults! Another crazy swing.
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 4-5 Amanda Anisimova*
04:50 , Jamie BraidwoodIncredible. Osaka is 40-0 up and heading to a swift hold.
But Anisimova does not give up on it. She gets her returns in play, cracking her strike and Osaka and drawing a series of errors.
She drags herself to break point, infuriating Osaka, and then pings a miraculous defensive slice onto Osaka’s feet.
Osaka goes long, Anisimova wheels away. Osaka thumps a ball away and tosses her racket towards her chair!
Anisimova will serve for the set!
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 4-4 Amanda Anisimova
04:45 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova lands an ace. As we get to the business end of the set, who is going to raise their level?
If Anisimova gets it, we could be heading towards a three-hour epic, and a very late night.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 4-3 Amanda Anisimova*
04:40 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka holds.
Stepping in, Osaka puts the forehand winer away. She’s got some form and confidence back when striking for the lines. A powerful backhand is pushed long by Anisimova.
BREAK! *Naomi Osaka 7-6 3-3 Amanda Anisimova
04:37 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova hangs her head after making double-fault to bring up 0-30.
The American then appears tense as she stands over a second serve, but Osaka nets.
When Osaka nets again, she thumps her racket off the court. Neither player is at their best right now.
Anisimova catches the net-cord, as her forehand goes out. Break point: Anisimova misses again and Osaka yells in delight!
Anisimova taps her head with her racket in frustration. Osaka is back into it.
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 2-3 Amanda Anisimova*
04:31 , Jamie BraidwoodThe frustration from Osaka was building and she smacks a ball down into the ground after going long on break point!
She couldn’t get the serve in play, and her consistency in the rallies suddenly disappeared there.
Anisimova breaks to lead.
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 2-2 Amanda Anisimova
04:29 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka is given a time warning serving at 15-30. She responds with a backhand winner down the line.
But Anisimova’s deep return forces Osaka to then go long on the backhand, bringing break point.
Osaka faces pressure on the second serve. Anisimova goes after the forehand, Osaka defends.
Then Anisimova’s strike bounces out off the net-cord!
*Naomi Osaka 7-6 2-2 Amanda Anisimova
04:24 , Jamie BraidwoodAnother game where the pattern bounces between Anisimova winner or Anisimova error.
Much of it, though, is down to how many balls Osaka is getting back in play. Her movement is looking so sharp.
Anisimova finds a big, accurate serve down the T and Osaka goes long on the stretch.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 2-1 Amanda Anisimova*
04:16 , Jamie BraidwoodWith both players struggling to hold, Osaka understandably looked absolutely pumped as she lands beautiful forehand and then backhand winners in succession to get the game.
BREAK! *Naomi Osaka 7-6 1-1 Amanda Anisimova
04:11 , Jamie BraidwoodThe pattern of hot and cold continues. Osaka does not need to do too much to get the break straight back, just moving to the ball and staying in the rally. Anisimova makes successive forehand errors and needs to stop herself from throwing her racket.
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 7-6 0-1 Amanda Anisimova*
04:07 , Jamie BraidwoodWhat a start to the second set from Anisimova, with two thumping backhand winners. She’s not going to change how she wants to play.
Anisimova slipped a little on the second backhand return, finding herself off-balance. And she walks a little slowly back to her chair.
Naomi Osaka 7-6 (7-4) Amanda Anisimova
04:04 , Jamie BraidwoodA set full of ups and downs from Anisimova. She’s had 17 winners to 23 unforced errors. For Osaka, it’s 9 winners to 10 unforced errors.
Anisimova heads off court.
FIRST SET! Naomi Osaka 7-6 (7-4) Amanda Anisimova
04:00 , Jamie BraidwoodACE from Osaka! Then Anisimova goes long on the forehand to bring five set points.
Anisimova catches the back of the line with her forehand and then finds an ace to get it back to 6-3.
There’s a delay as Osaka’s ball is called out, but the computer went down to confirm it. 6-4.
Anisimova nets and Osaka yells “come on” as she gets the first set!
Anisimova stays where she is on the baseline and hangs her head.
That was a tiebreak littered with errors.
TIEBREAK! Naomi Osaka 6-6 (5-1) Amanda Anisimova
03:54 , Jamie BraidwoodA forehand return into the net from Anisimova seems to dent her momentum, and a double-fault from the American is followed by another big forehand error into the net!
Osaka leads 4-1 with two serves to come.
And she makes an ace with the first one!
TIEBREAK! Naomi Osaka 6-6 Amanda Anisimova
03:51 , Jamie BraidwoodJust as Anisimova was catching fire, hitting winners on both sides to get to 15-30, she puts a backhand second-serve return into the net.
Osaka takes full advantage, Closing the door and getting to the tiebreak.
*Naomi Osaka 5-6 Amanda Anisimova
03:47 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova finds her serve! Two first serves in a row from 30-30 is just what was required. Osaka nets on the first and then Anisimova blasts another forehand winner down the line!
A brilliant recovery from Anisimova from 5-3 down.
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 5-5 Amanda Anisimova*
03:44 , Jamie BraidwoodA double fault from Osaka on the opening point is followed by a great defensive effort from Anisimova. Osaka should find the forehand winner but blasts wide.
What a point from Anisimova to bring up break point! She absolutely crushes the ball past Osaka with venom. So clean and so quick.
And Anisimova does it again to take apart the Osaka second serve! A clean forehand winner down the line seals the break back!
*Naomi Osaka 5-4 Amanda Anisimova
03:40 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova gestures to her box as Osaka hits out on game point. She’s not happy with how she’s playing but connected with a lovely forehand winner down the line to get the hold.
Osaka still has the chance to serve for it.
Naomi Osaka 5-3 Amanda Anisimova*
03:36 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka gets her third winner of the match with a lovely forehand down the line, and follows that with an ace.
*Naomi Osaka 4-3 Amanda Anisimova
03:34 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka saves two break points.
The ace out wide was excellent but Anisimova would want the backhand again from the middle of the baseline that found the net.
Anisimova is ruthlessly attacking the Osaka second serve at any opportunity and thunders the forehand winner to get deuce.
*Naomi Osaka 4-3 Amanda Anisimova
03:29 , Jamie BraidwoodAn absolute rocket of a backhand winner from Anisimova is greeted by a shriek of “come on!”
She gets the hold as Osaka nets on the backhand. Anisimova is trying to find that spark.
Naomi Osaka 4-2 Amanda Anisimova*
03:26 , Jamie BraidwoodFor a split second, it looks as if Anisimova is about to chuck her racket after a forehand finds the net.
She faces 15-30, but Osaka can’t find the forehand pass crosscourt and then Anisimova lands the serve down the T.
Anisimova works herself to game point, but then pushes the backhand down the line long!
She’s up to 14 unforced errors already. Back to deuce.
Naomi Osaka 4-2 Amanda Anisimova*
03:22 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka does find her serving to consolidate the break, though, as Anisimova floats the return long on the stretch.
Positive body language from Osaka as she shadow-swings at he back of the court after moving 4-2 ahead.
BREAK! *Naomi Osaka 3-2 Amanda Anisimova
03:19 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova cracks her racket on the court after a backhand error on 15-30 brings up two break points.
Chance for Osaka: and she takes it to break ahead again, as Anisimova loses control of the backhand.
In such a power-vs-power game, whoever is getting their big strike in play first is coming out on top.
Both players are also serving at around 50 per cent in the early stages, so are vulnerable.
BREAK! Naomi Osaka 2-2 Amanda Anisimova*
03:14 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova finds her rhythm and Osaka can only watch as a winner flies past her.
Anisimova brings power to the Osaka forehand and forces the error into the net.
Then, on break point, Anisimova scorches the return winner! What a response.
Back on serve.
*Naomi Osaka 2-1 Amanda Anisimova
03:10 , Jamie BraidwoodA nightmare start looked to be on the cards for Anisimova as Osaka raced to make a backhand winner and get to 0-40!
You can feel the nerves as Anisimova delays on her second serve, but she comes through it, saving all three as she trades baseline blows with Osaka.
An important hold for Anisimova’s confidence and similarities to the Swiatek quarter-final already.
Naomi Osaka 2-0 Amanda Anisimova*
03:05 , Jamie BraidwoodBut when Anisimova was broken against Swiatek, it was key that the 24-year-old broke straight back.
Osaka does not allow that as she lands a wide serve to get the love-hold.
Good start from Osaka.
BREAK! *Naomi Osaka 1-0 Amanda Anisimova
03:04 , Jamie BraidwoodAnisimova scorches a backhand winner on the opening point but then double-faults to bring 30-30.
She can’t find the first serve, and Osaka goes big on the forehand return - Anisimova nets!
Break point: and Osaka takes it, squeezing the forehand error from Anisimova.
A nervy start from Anisimova, but she was also broken in the very first game of the Swiatek quarter-final.
Naomi Osaka v Amanda Anisimova
02:56 , Jamie BraidwoodNaomi Osaka has never lost a grand slam semi-final.
Amanda Anisimova defeated Aryna Sabalenka to reach the Wimbledon final, but is playing in the semi-finals for the first time here.
Anisimova won the toss and chose to serve.
We also have a clash here of two of the biggest baseline hitters in the sport.
Naomi Osaka v Amanda Anisimova
02:52 , Jamie BraidwoodOsaka is bringing another spectacular look as she walks out onto Arthur Ashe Stadium in her dazzling purple jacket, with matching headphones.
Before taking to court, Osaka said: "I don't know if I'm pleased with my play so far in this tournament. I'm pleased with my attitude. Anisimova is one of the best shotmakers and has a great return of serve.”
One more semi. One more spot.
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
Naomi Osaka faces Amanda Anisimova. pic.twitter.com/so836juzyj
Naomi Osaka v Amanda Anisimova up next!
02:49 , Jamie BraidwoodNaomi Osaka bids to reach her first grand slam final in almost five years against home US Open favourite Amanda Anisimova.
Osaka, the 2019 and 2020 champion in New York, won the last of her four grand slam titles at the 2021 Australian Open before taking a break from the sport for her mental health and giving birth to her daughter Shai in 2023.
The former World No 1 defeated Coco Gauff in the last-16 and then Karolina Muchova in the quarter-finals and is enjoying her best run of form since returning to the sport 18 months ago.
She will face Anisimova, who claimed redemption for her 6-0 6-0 Wimbledon final defeat by beating Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals 6-4 6-3. The 24-year-old American is through to her first US Open semi-final.
The players are walking out on court now!
Sabalenka roars into third straight US Open final
02:47 , Jamie BraidwoodThat was an emphatic celebration on match point from Sabalenka,
She knows how hard she was pushed.
Aryna keeps her title defense ALIVE 👑
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 5, 2025
Sabalenka prevails in a three-set showdown with Pegula to return to the US Open final! pic.twitter.com/jq8hepDUZ3
Aryna Sabalenka after defeating Jessica Pegula to reach US Open final
02:41 , Jamie Braidwood“I had to work really hard to get this win. I’m super happy to get the win against Jessica. She’s such a great player and great fighter. Always tough matches. Super happy to be in the final again. Hopefully I can go all the way again.
“I don’t know [how she saved the break points]. I was just praying inside and hoping for the best.”
Aryna Sabalenka continues dominant hard-court grand slam record
02:38 , Jamie BraidwoodAryna Sabalenka advances to her sixth consecutive grand slam final on a hard-court, making both the Australian Open and US Open final in the same season for the third year in a row.
She lost the Australian Open final and French Open final this season but now has the chance to finish the season with a major title.
Aryna Sabalenka continues US Open title defence
02:29 , Jamie BraidwoodAryna Sabalenka remains on course in her bid to become the first player since Serena Williams in 2014 to defend the US Open singles title.
She’s through to her third US Open final in a row, and will play either Naomi Osaka or Amanda Anisimova for her fourth grand slam title on Saturday.
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:27 , Jamie BraidwoodA warm hug and lots of respect between the players as Sabalenka and Pegula meet at the net.
“Thank you for bringing the best atmosphere,” Sabalenka said. “She’s such a tough opponent”.
Sabalenka says she was “praying” on the break points in the third set. She faced four in total while attempting to close out the match, but saved all four.
GAME, SET AND MATCH! Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:24 , Jamie BraidwoodPegula’s return is long! Sabalenka is looking furious but she has a third match point. SHE FINDS THE FOREHAND WINNER AND SCREAMS INTO THE NIGHT!
Sabalenka returns to the US Open final! But wow that was tense.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:22 , Jamie BraidwoodThat was the match right there, but Sabalenka brings another match point as she flashes the backhand winner and screams after it.
Pegula crushes the backhand into Sabalenka’s feet as she came into the net! A second match point saved as Sabalenka can’t find the pick up!
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:21 , Jamie BraidwoodACE from Sabalenka! She waves her arms to the crowd as she brings up match point!
WHAT A GET FORM PEGULA! She hangs up the lob and Sabalenka puts the smash into the net!
DEUCE!
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:19 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka steadies herself after she catches a net-cord and Pegula thumps the forehand winner. Pegula puts the backhand long and Sabalenka is two points away!
But Sabalenka pulls the backhand after a tense rally and there’s another pressure-point on 30-30.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-4 Jessica Pegula
02:16 , Jamie BraidwoodFor the second game in a row, Pegula holds to love to immediately throw the pressure to Sabalenka, who will serve for the final.
She’s saved four break points so far in this set alone. Sabalenka took her only opportunity, right at the start of the third.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 5-3 Jessica Pegula*
02:14 , Jamie BraidwoodFrom deuce, Sabalenka finds her serves and takes the racket out of Pegula’s hands with a series of big blows.
Huge hold, again saving break points, to move a game away.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 4-3 Jessica Pegula
02:11 , Jamie BraidwoodOh my! Sabalenka looked comfortable at 30-0 but then pushes the backhand wide. On 30-30, Sabalenka double faults and tosses her racket away in disgust!
Another break point for Pegula - but Sabalenka saves with a perfect wide serve and backhand winner!
Sabalenka finds the same combo on the forehand side. Deuce.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 4-3 Jessica Pegula
02:06 , Jamie BraidwoodJust what Pegula needed. A love-hold and now Sabalenka has to think about serving again. The World No 1 is right on the edge, and again showed some irritation at a couple of returns that drifted wide.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 4-2 Jessica Pegula*
02:04 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka holds! She finds two first serves and gets over the line. Thumping a smash over the net, then as Pegula puts the return long. She moves two games away after saving three break points.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 3-2 Jessica Pegula
02:02 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka misses on the backhand and there is some noise as Sabalenka then misses her first serve on the third break point.
But Sabalenka digs in, staying rock solid on the baseline despite the depth from Pegula.
Double fault from Sabalenka! She swipes the ball in frustration, jaw clenched. Wow this is a testing game.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 3-2 Jessica Pegula
01:59 , Jamie BraidwoodPegula manages to find a deep return to Sabalenka’s feet and she steers the backhand wide to face 15-30.
Pegula attacks brilliantly, forcing Sabalenka on the defensive! The drop shot doesn’t do enough, but she is there to put away the volley!
Two break points. But it’s clutch from Sabalenka! She saves with an overhead and then a backhand winner.
Deuce.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 3-2 Jessica Pegula
01:54 , Jamie BraidwoodPegula holds to love but the next 20 or so minutes are going to be about whether Sabalenka’s serve can hold the next three service games.
The crowd have not been hostile or difficult towards Sabalenka in any way. But she’s also managing the occasion well.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 3-1 Jessica Pegula*
01:51 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka knows she faces a big point on 15-30, and the roar from the World No. 1 as she finds the ace out wide confirms it.
On 40-30, Sabalenka finds the same serve to power the strike beyond Pegula, who dived to her left.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 2-1 Jessica Pegula
01:47 , Jamie BraidwoodPegula responds by holding to love. The crowd are desperate for the American to keep going. Taking it to Sabalenka is the only way.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 2-0 Jessica Pegula*
01:44 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka is dictating and Pegula needs to find a way to disrupt her.
But the World No 1 has been playing wonderfully since the very start of the second set and holds to love to consolidate the break.
The big serve gets the forehand into play and sets up the winner.
BREAK! *Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 1-0 Jessica Pegula
01:42 , Jamie BraidwoodPegula smashes a ball in frustration as Sabalenka breaks in the opening game!
The defending champion crushed a return winner off the second serve.
And Pegula went long on the forehand to put Sabalenka in charge.
SECOND SET! Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 6-3 Jessica Pegula
01:36 , Jamie BraidwoodThat could have been a testing game for Sabalenka and the relief is clear as she yells “come on!” when Pegula nets on the second-serve return!
She levels it up and forces the third in the semi-final.
*Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 5-3 Jessica Pegula
01:31 , Jamie BraidwoodNow could that be another turning point! Sabalenka nets, her third error in a row from set point up.
Pegula stays in the set and now Sabalenka has to put that behind her in order to serve it out.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 5-2 Jessica Pegula*
01:30 , Jamie BraidwoodUnreal defence from Sabalenka to reach the Pegula crosscourt backhand, spinning the ball back into play.
Pegula misses the volley and then double-faults! That brings up set point for Sabalenka.
The crowd attempt to rally behind Pegula but this may be too late.
Sabalenka nets on the forehand, though, then blasts long on the second-serve return.
Aryna Sabalenka 4-6 5-2 Jessica Pegula*
01:25 , Jamie BraidwoodSabalenka manages to keep her foot down to increase her lead and move a game away from the set.
Despite a double fault on 40-0, Sabalenka’s serve has been able to find its marks a lot more in this set. As if to prove that point, she belts an ace to hold.
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