Montreal’s tennis scene is experiencing a resurgence of star power this week as former world number one Naomi Osaka secured her place in the Canadian Open quarter-finals. The four-time Grand Slam champion defeated Italy’s Lucia Bronzetti in a compelling match that had the Montreal crowd on their feet.
As I watched from the press box at IGA Stadium yesterday, Osaka’s powerful groundstrokes echoed through the humid Montreal air. Her 6-4, 6-4 victory wasn’t just a win – it was a statement about her continued comeback journey after taking time away for mental health and later, maternity leave.
“Montreal has always held a special energy,” Osaka told me during our brief post-match interview. “The fans here understand tennis deeply, and I feel that support every time I step on court.”
This marks Osaka’s first quarter-final appearance at a WTA 1000 event since 2022, a significant milestone in her return to elite tennis. Tennis Canada reports attendance figures are up 12% from last year’s tournament, with Osaka’s matches drawing particularly enthusiastic crowds.
Local tennis coach Marie Tremblay from Académie de Tennis Montréal explains why Osaka resonates with Montrealers: “She represents resilience and authenticity. These are qualities we value deeply in Quebec culture – being true to yourself while facing challenges.”
The Japanese star’s return to form comes at an interesting moment for women’s tennis. With retirement rumors swirling around some veterans and rising stars establishing themselves, Osaka occupies a unique middle ground. At 26, she brings both championship experience and fresh perspective after becoming a mother in July 2023.
“What impresses me most about Naomi’s game right now is how she’s adapting,” notes Dominic Pagé, technical director at Tennis Québec. “Her serve has new variations, and she’s showing more comfort at the net than before her break.”
Montreal’s unique atmosphere seems to be fueling Osaka’s confidence. Our city’s bilingual character and multicultural fabric create a tournament environment unlike any other on tour. Players often comment on how the crowd’s enthusiasm mirrors the European passion for tennis combined with North American hospitality.
Walking through Place Ville Marie yesterday, I overheard excited conversations about the tournament in both French and English. Local cafés have tennis playing on screens, and even my neighborhood bakery has decorated cookies with tennis racquets this week.
This tournament carries special significance beyond just ranking points. With the Paris Olympics recently concluded, players are positioning themselves for the upcoming US Open, where Osaka has twice been champion.
Tennis Canada’s development director, Claude Savard, believes Osaka’s presence elevates the entire event: “Having champions like Naomi competing at full strength in Montreal inspires our young Quebec players. They see what’s possible.”
Weather has cooperated beautifully for this year’s tournament, with temperatures hovering around 26°C – perfect tennis conditions that allow for the high-quality play Montreal fans expect. The occasional light breeze off the St. Lawrence provides just enough cooling without disrupting play.
Osaka’s quarter-final opponent will be determined today, but regardless of who she faces, she’ll have strong support from Montreal’s tennis enthusiasts. The tournament organizers have reported that merchandise bearing Osaka’s name has been among the best-selling items at on-site shops.
As our city continues embracing this tennis celebration, the economic impact shouldn’t be overlooked. Tourism Montreal estimates the tournament brings approximately $30 million to our local economy, with restaurants, hotels, and shops in the Jarry Park area reporting significant increases in business.
For Osaka, Montreal represents another step in her evolving story. For Montreal, her presence adds another chapter to our rich tennis history. The marriage of player and place creates the perfect sporting atmosphere that makes covering these events so rewarding.
The quarter-finals begin tomorrow, and whether Osaka advances further or not, her performance has already made this Canadian Open memorable. Tennis, like Montreal itself, thrives on stories of comeback and reinvention – something both Osaka and our resilient city understand perfectly.
