Naomi Osaka reaches First Wimbledon Quarter-Final
Naomi Osaka is through to her first Wimbledon quarter-final after playing one of her best performances of the season to defeat world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6(1).
The victory is Osaka’s first over Sabalenka since 2018 and ended the Belarusian’s remarkable run of 21 consecutive Grand Slam tie-break wins.
Having lost all three meetings against Sabalenka earlier this year, Osaka turned the tables with an impressive display, overpowering the top seed from the opening set.
After the match, the four-time Grand Slam champion credited her team, especially coach Tomasz Wiktorowski, for helping transform her game on grass.
She said:
“Shout out my team. My team is the best team ever. I have so much fun with them. I learn so much. I’m so grateful they’re on this journey with me.”
Osaka also thanked her mother for helping fuel her Wimbledon run.
“My mom is over there. She cooks a lot. I feel like her cooking is powering me. Mom, I would really appreciate another meal tonight. Thank you so much!”
Sabalenka admitted Osaka deserved the victory and praised the level of tennis she produced.
“I didn’t play my best. And she played probably her best. Sometimes that happens.”
With the world No. 1 now behind her, Osaka heads into the quarter-finals with confidence and another great win to her name.
