The highly anticipated women’s singles semi-final at the Rod Laver Arena had a noticeable buzz from crowds returning to the stands for the first time after a five-day lockdown, the result of a minor outbreak of the Melbourne coronavirus, causing the state government to swiftly Covid-19 containment measures.
Osaka won the match 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the Australian Open final for the second time. She has now won 20 consecutive games and lost in February last year.
“I don’t know if there are any little kids here today, but I was a little kid watching her play,” Osaka said of Williams on the track after the win. “It is a dream for me to play against her on the field.”
Williams, 39, hugged Osaka after the game. As she left, she waved to the crowd and put a hand on her heart.
Williams was asked at a post-game press conference if the gesture meant goodbye.
‘I do not know. If I ever said goodbye, I wouldn’t tell anyone, ”she said.
Visibly emotional, Williams left the press conference after the following question.
After the press conference, Williams posted the following on Instagram: “Melbourne and my Australian fans – Today was not an ideal outcome or performance, but it is happening … I am so honored to play for all of you. You support – your cheers, I Only wish I could have done better for you today I’m forever in debt and grateful to everyone who’s single with you I love you I love you I love you I love you I adore you ‘
Williams’ last major title was at the 2017 Australian Open, when she was eight weeks pregnant. This is her first defeat in an Australian Open semi-final, having previously turned 8-0 at that stage of the tournament.
Osaka, the reigning US Open champion and winner of the Australian Open 2019, is unbeaten in semifinals and finals of the grand slam. All of her career titles – including her three majors – have made it to hard courts. She now has a 3-1 career record against Williams, including defeating Williams in the infamous 2018 US Open final.
Osaka is the big favorite in the final on Saturday. She will compete against No. 22 seed Jennifer Brady from the United States, who defeated No. 25 seed Karolina Muchova from the Czech Republic 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 in the second semifinal. In their last meeting, the US Open semi-finals five months ago, Osaka defeated Brady 7-6 (1), 3-6, 6-3.
At the age of 25, this will be Brady’s first grand finale.
