Naomi Osaka’s return to the latter stages of a Grand Slam ended in disappointment on Thursday night, as she fell in three sets to Amanda Anisimova in the US Open semi-finals.

The two-time champion was unable to convert her early advantage, losing 6-7, 7-6, 6-3 in a contest that underlined both her progress since returning to the tour and the quality of her 22-year-old opponent, who has now reached back-to-back Grand Slam finals.

Osaka, 27, cut a dejected figure after her exit when speaking in her post-match press conference.

Known throughout this year’s tournament for bringing along her collection of custom-made Labubu dolls — quirky, collectible plush toys that she revealed had become a small source of comfort during the fortnight — Osaka was asked what her “next Labubu” would have been had she reached the final.

Naomi Osaka was proud of her performance despite losing to Amanda Anisimova at the US Open

The question, lighthearted in tone, nearly reduced her to tears.

“Don’t make me cry, man. The most devastating question,” Osaka responded.

“So I literally just talked about this, but I wanted to make one of myself in my last year outfit, the green one. It would have had the bow and I’m sick about it.

"Oh my God, that’s like the worst thing. Honestly, I’m fine losing, but don’t ask me about this Labubu.”

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Despite the rawness of the moment, Osaka was quick to insist that the loss itself had not left her despondent and that she was proud of her efforts.

“I mean, honestly I don’t feel sad, it’s really weird,” she said.

“Well, it’s not weird, because 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 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’s reaction after beating Naomi Osaka to reach US Open final

She falls to her knees, soaking it all in.

If you’ve followed her journey, you know a constant theme in her life is bravery.

She showed it once again tonight.

Chills. ????
pic.twitter.com/ol0m2RNWAR

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) September 5, 2025

That perspective marks a notable shift for Osaka, who in the past has spoken candidly about the mental and emotional toll of professional tennis.

At one stage, she stepped away from the sport altogether, citing struggles with anxiety and the pressure of constant scrutiny.

Her ability to find encouragement, even in defeat, suggests a healthier outlook that may serve her well as she continues her comeback.

Asked about the challenge presented by Anisimova, Osaka gave credit to her opponent’s unpredictable style.

“I wouldn’t say it’s a bigger challenge than I expected, because I kind of knew that she’s that type of player,” she said.

“It was just kind of funny at times, because there is no pattern to what she’s doing.

"It’s kind of like she just hits at the empty court or whatever, and it usually goes in.

"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 was delighted after powering her way into the US Open final

For Anisimova, the win sets up a final clash with Aryna Sabalenka.

The American will be chasing her first major title and looking to build on her run to the Wimbledon final earlier this summer. Having already avenged her loss to Iga Swiatek at SW19 by beating the world No 1 in the quarter-finals in New York, she arrives with momentum and belief.

For Osaka, meanwhile, this US Open served as a reminder that she remains a contender at the game’s highest level. Her tennis continues to evolve, and her willingness to confront both personal and professional challenges openly has made her one of the sport’s most compelling figures.

The Labubu dolls may not have made it to a final this time, but Osaka’s journey back toward the top appears far from over.