"I put aside all the expectations I had for myself," Osaka reveals the keys to her success in Canada

Impressive, Naomi Osaka has reached the semifinals of the WTA 1000 in Montreal. Facing Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals, the Japanese player needed just over an hour to overpower the Ukrainian (6-2, 6-2).

In a press conference after her victory, the four-time Grand Slam champion reflected on her match. She will face Clara Tauson late Wednesday into Thursday for a spot in the Canadian final.

"I'm very happy and very motivated. It's interesting because after Wimbledon, I was very disappointed, so I let go and put aside all the expectations I had for myself. I just keep trusting myself, and I know I'm in good physical shape.

I try not to give away any points and fight every moment, while seeing what happens if I try to do things right on and off the court. Today, I felt very good physically, which is really important when playing against someone who moves as well as Elina (Svitolina).

I know she’s on a great run, but I never really focus on a player’s form over the past weeks or months. Every player is tough to face, and honestly, I got lucky today.

I’ve played against her several times before, and I knew it would be very tricky. The same goes for Tauson in the semifinals—it’s going to be a very tough match. I found her really interesting when we played in Auckland.

Truthfully, I feel happier when I win matches, but that’s the reality of being an athlete. That said, I also think I’m winning because I’m happier now—it’s a virtuous cycle.

It’s hard to imagine, but I feel more at peace with myself at this stage of the season. I know there are tournaments where I’ll feel confident and give my best," Osaka explained to Punto de Break.