Naomi Osaka powered her way back into the US Open semi-finals with a composed 6-4, 7-6(3) victory over Karolina Muchova on Wednesday night.

The Japanese 23rd seed, a two-time champion in New York, produced her sharpest display of the fortnight to overcome the Czech 11th seed in just under two hours.

The win marks her deepest run at a major since lifting the Australian Open trophy in 2021.

Osaka, who has already ousted third seed Coco Gauff, will next meet eighth seed Amanda Anisimova in Thursday’s semi-finals.

With three higher-ranked scalps already claimed, the 27-year-old heads into the clash full of confidence and belief.

“It was an incredibly difficult match,” Osaka said. “She’s one of the best players in the world, and every time I play her it’s tough. I’m just really grateful to be here. My dream is coming true.”

Osaka struck late to edge the opening set before holding her nerve in a tense second-set tie-break, showing the resolve that once made her a four-time Grand Slam champion.

Having returned to the sport this year after time away to have her daughter, she is now within touching distance of another final in New York.