The World number one beat Croatian Donna Vekic 6-3 4-6 7-6 (7-4) at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix.
Osaka will now face Anett Kontaveit, who was able to progress after Victoria Azarenka retired.
Petra Kvitova will face Kiki Bertens in the other semi-final.
Bangladesh humble Australia on day one of Darwin Test
Bangladesh savoured their first taste of test cricket in Australia in 23 years on Thursday as they skittled the world's top-ranked side for less than 200 and moved to stumps in command at 96 for one on the first day of the series-opener in Darwin.
Swiatek reaches her first final of season at Canadian Open
Iga Swiatek has rallied from a break down in the deciding set to beat Ukraine's Elina Svitolina 6-3 1-6 6-3 at the Canadian Open on Wednesday, securing her place in a final for the first time this season at the US Open tune-up event in Toronto.
PSG retain UEFA Super Cup with win over Aston Villa
Goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue have helped Paris St Germain to retain the UEFA Super Cup with a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday.
Americans Shelton, Nakashima to meet in Canadian Open final
Defending champion Ben Shelton will face Brandon Nakashima for the Canadian Open title on Thursday after both Americans advanced in straight sets to the final of a key US Open warm-up event.
Dalic named UAE coach after leaving Croatia
Croatian manager Zlatko Dalic has been appointed coach of the UAE, the country's football association (UAEFA) said on Wednesday.
Dubai Humanitarian has facilitated a new air bridge to deliver urgently needed humanitarian supplies to Gaza.
The month-long Dubai Fitness Challenge that transforms the Emirate into a city-wide gym will return for its 10th edition.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has held talks with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa during his fraternal visit to the UAE.
