In an early match at the National Bank Open, Elena Rybakina demonstrated resilience against Naomi Osaka to secure a 4-6, 7-6 (5), 6-4 victory, advancing to the semifinals. Breaking Osaka’s serve at a crucial moment in the deciding set, Rybakina powered through for the win at Sobeys Stadium.
The match was rescheduled due to Belinda Bencic’s withdrawal because of a hip injury, allowing Coco Gauff to progress to the semifinals through a walkover. Rybakina and Osaka engaged in a fierce battle lasting two hours and 33 minutes, with Rybakina expressing difficulty adapting to the late-day light.
Despite the challenges, Rybakina sealed her spot in the semifinals where she will face Gauff, acknowledging the upcoming match’s intensity. On the other side, Elina Svitolina from Ukraine will confront Iga Swiatek of Poland in the other semifinal matchup.
Bencic, who withdrew from the tournament, expressed regret for not being able to compete and praised the event. Osaka, a former NBO finalist, faced a tough defeat as Rybakina’s resilience shone through, securing her third WTA 1000 semifinal appearance this season.
In the men’s category, defending champion Ben Shelton advanced to the semifinals after a convincing victory over Jakub Mensik. Shelton, maintaining an impressive tournament record, will face Learner Tien in the semifinals. The United States also saw Brandon Nakashima secure a spot in the semis, setting up an exciting Masters 1000 semifinal clash against Rafael Jodar.