Six years after their emotional first meeting, Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka are set to clash again at the US Open in a fourth-round match that feels like destiny.
Their story began in 2019, when a 15-year-old Gauff was comforted by Osaka after losing to the defending champion. This time, they meet as equals. Gauff is now a two-time Grand Slam winner, while Osaka has collected four majors and once held the world No. 1 ranking. Both are sending strong messages with their play in New York.
Gauff Dominates, Osaka Fights Back
Gauff eased past Magdalena Frech 6-3, 6-1 in the third round, calling it a “stress-free” win. At just 20, she’s already reached the Round of 16 at a Slam 16 times something only Venus Williams has done more among American women before turning 22.
Osaka’s path was far tougher. She stormed through her opening set 6-0, only to lose her rhythm in the second. But she recovered in the decider, sealing the win 6-3. It marked her first trip this deep at a major since early 2021, a comeback moment filled with grit.
A Rivalry With History
What makes this matchup so compelling isn’t just the rankings or titles it’s the shared history. Their 2019 meeting ended in straight sets for Osaka, but it was remembered for the emotional scene that followed, when she invited a teary Gauff to share the spotlight.
Now, both are seasoned champions with plenty to prove. The rematch is more than just another round at the US Open. It’s a story of growth, resilience, and respect played out under the bright lights of New York.
