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Naomi Osaka - beats Serena Williams
Australian Open, Serena Williams, Tennis News, WTA Tennis Players

‘Playing Serena Williams is a dream,’ says Naomi Osaka after Australian Open semi-final success


Serena Williams will have to wait a little longer for another chance to win a 24th Grand Slam title after Naomi Osaka beat her at the Australian Open.

Williams started their semi-final in blistering form, breaking Osaka early to take charge of the early proceedings.

However, once Osaka got herself into the match, it was her who made all the running and she was able to start dictating to Williams before sealing a 6-3, 6-4 win.

“I was really nervous and scared in the beginning and then I sort of eased my way into it,” said Osaka.

“It’s always an honour to play her and I didn’t want to go out really bad. I just wanted to try my best.

“I don’t know if there’s any little kids here today but I was a little kid, watching Serena play, and playing on court against her is a dream.”

Osaka will now face either Jennifer Brady or Karolina Muchove as she fights for a fourth Grand Slam title on Saturday.

“Everyone is really excited whenever they play their first final, but they’re also super nervous,” Osaka added on her upcoming final.

“I don’t want to wish nerves on anyone, but hopefully… [laughs]. For the past few weeks I’ve been eating Japanese food on the day before my match.

“Yesterday I decided to eat Greek food, then I woke up and saw Tsitsipas had beaten Nadal. Maybe Greek food is good!”


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Michael Graham, Tennishead.net Editor, has been a professional sports journalist for his whole career and is especially passionate about tennis. He's been the Editor of Tennishead.net for over 5 years and loves watching live tennis by visiting as many tournaments as possible. Michael specialises in writing in-depth features about the ATP & WTA tours.