Serena Williams has missed the chance to match Australian Margaret Court’s record of 24 major singles titles after losing to 23-year-old Naomi Osaka at the Australian Open in Melbourne on Thursday.
Williams and Osaka clashed in the highly anticipated women’s singles semifinal at Rod Laver Arena which saw a small crowd attend the game following the COVID-19 containment measures.
At first, it seemed like Williams was in control but Osaka made a comeback winning the match 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the Australian Open final for the second time. She has now won 20 consecutive matches, last losing in February last year.
Osaka will now face Jennifer Brady in Saturday’s final after the American beat Karolina Muchova. Brady came past the Czech 6-4 3-6 6-4 to seal a spot in her first Grand Slam final. It will be a rematch of the 2020 US Open semi-final, which Osaka came through in three sets.
“I don’t know if there’s any little kids out here today, but I was a little kid watching her play,” Osaka said of Williams on court after the win.
“Just to be on the court playing against her for me is a dream.”
Fans were left wondering whether they’ve seen the last of Willian’s on-court action after the 39-year-old waved goodbye to the crowd and left holding her heart.
“I don’t know. If I ever say farewell, I wouldn’t tell anyone, so,” she said.
“Melbourne and my Australian fans- Today was not ideal outcome or performance but it happens… I am so honored to be able to play in front of you all. Your support -your cheers, I only wish I could have done better for you today. I am forever in debt and grateful to each and everyone single one of you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I adore you.” she later said on Twitter.
Osaka, the reigning US Open champion and winner of the 2019 Australian Open, is undefeated in grand slam quarterfinals, semifinals and finals.
