Osaka beats Bencic to reach Miami Open final

Tennis star Naomi Osaka came from behind to oust Olympic champion Belinda Bencic in a high-quality semi-final showdown at the Miami Open. 

The Japanese star is showing signs of getting back to her best and will now face the soon-to-be world No.1 Iga Swiatek or the American Jessica Pegula in the final.

The former world No.1 had to hit back from a set down to see off the Olympic champion 4-6 6-3 6-4 and reach her first WTA Tour final since winning the 2021 Australian Open.

Osaka, who can move back into the world’s top 30 if she triumphs at the tournament, will now face Iga Swiatek or Jessica Pegula in a showdown for the trophy.

The world number 77 fired down 18 aces against Bencic - the most in a WTA Tour match this season - and she was fighting back tears as she spoke on court following her victory.

"Damn, I’m almost crying," she said in response to huge cheers from the crowd. "This tournament means a lot to me. It’s my first time in the final here and I’m really thankful. It’s been a while since I've been in a final - I think it was the Australian Open last year - so thank you guys so much, I really love you from the bottom of my heart."

Asked how she overcame an opponent who was leading their match-up 3-1 coming into the contest, she added: "Honestly, I don’t think I figured her out at all. I hit a couple of really good serves and she just hit winners on them. I felt like all I could really do is keep fighting and somehow I managed to win. She's an amazing player and I wish I had her return!"

The contrast of styles made for an intriguing spectacle right from the off as momentum switched throughout the opening set.

Osaka surged through an early hold and had break opportunities on Bencic’s first service game but the Swiss stood firm during what proved to be a lengthy test with some staunch defence.