Osaka of Japan, the winner in 2018 and 2020, was absent from the competition the previous year due to giving birth to her daughter Shai.
The 26-year-old defeated Jelena Ostapenko in the opening round to record her first top-10 triumph in more than four years.
Nevertheless, she was unable to overcome Czech Muchova, falling short 6-3 7-6 (7-5) in the decider after wasting three set points.
Speaking before the US Open, Osaka, who also won the Australian Open in 2019 and 2021, mentioned that she hasn’t felt “like I’m in my body” since returning from maternity leave.
She made her comeback to the WTA Tour in January, although she has yet to advance past the quarterfinals of any tournament. This year, she lost at the French Open and Wimbledon’s second round, and at the Australian Open, she was eliminated at the first hurdle.
The four-time major winner described 2024 as a “learning year” in spite of the early exits.
It’s been a little challenging because, clearly, my performance is only measured in terms of outcomes. I feel like I’m moving more quickly. I lost the second round, but I feel better now. Thus, it’s a little tough,” remarked the former world champion.
