Naomi Osaka has become the first Japanese player to win the US Open after defeating Serena Williams 6-2, 6-4, in a dramatic final at the US Open.
Heading into Sunday’s showdown, Osaka said it was an ‘honour’ to play somebody that she idolised whilst growing up. The rising star of the women’s tour produced a stunning mixture of aggression and angle shots to overwhelm a frustrated Williams. Although Osaka’s performance was overshadowed by Williams‘ argument with the umpire after she was accused of receiving coaching. A confrontation that resulted in the American receiving a shocking game-penalty.
“I know that everybody was cheering for her (Williams) and I’m sorry it had to end like this.” A tearful Osaka said during the trophy ceremony.
“It was always my dream to play Serena in the US Open finals. I’m glad that I was able to do that.” She later added.
Heading into the final, the 20-year-old was undoubtedly the underdog against her experienced rival. Osaka was playing in her first grand slam final, compared to Williams’ 31st. Nevertheless, the 20th seed executed her game plan perfectly. Hitting shots deep towards the baseline and mixing up the direction of her speedy serve.
Playing in a full capacity Arthur Ashe stadium, Osaka’s seemingly invisible nerves drew numerous errors from the 23-time grand slam champion. Three games into the match, the Japanese player drew first blood after a Williams double fault granted her a break for 2-1. Continuing to pile the pressure on the home favourite with the use of angle shots, Osaka sealed the double break two games later at the expense of another mistake from her rival. The one-sided opener drew both shock and admiration from the animated crowd in New York. Just 35 minutes into the match, Osaka sealed the 6-2 lead with the help of a body serve.
A shock ending
Williams’ mood deteriorated further during the early stages of set number two. The former world No.1 was issued with a code violation for coaching from the stands. Prompting her to approach the umpire, Carlos Ramos, to say ‘I don’t cheat. I would rather lose.’ A video replay from ESPN, showed that Williams’ coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, was indicating with his hands to move forward. Something he later admitted doing, but not directly towards his player.
Following on from that controversial warning, Williams then erupted after receiving a point penalty. After breaking for a 3-1 lead in the second frame, Osaka broke back immediately. Prompting the American to smash her racket onto the court. Resulting in Ramos issuing her a second warning and a point penalty in accordance with the rules.
‘I didn’t get coaching. I didn’t get coaching. You need to make an announcement that I didn’t get coaching. You owe me an apology. I have never cheated in my life.’ Williams said in protest.
Amid the confrontation, Osaka’s mental strength remained remarkably flawless. Breaking for a set and 4-3 lead with the help of a stunning forehand winner.
As Osaka closed in on the biggest win of her career, another clash between Williams and Ramos at the change of ends stunned the world of tennis. After calling the official a ‘thief, Williams was handed a game penalty. Prompting a furious and upset Williams to demand a talk with the referee.
“You will never, ever, ever be on another court of mine as long as you live. You are the liar. You owe me an apology. You stole a point from me. You’re a thief, too.” Said Williams.
Regardless of the shock action, Osaka remained composed throughout as she sealed the biggest title of her career by converting her second championship point.
At the age of 20, Osaka will rise to seventh in the world rankings when they are updated on Monday. She will become the highest ranked Japanese player since 1996.