Japanese and Haitian tennis sensation Naomi Osaka has won the 2021 Australian Open. It’s her fourth Grand Slam title and her second victory at the tournament Down Under.
The 23-year-old champion defeated her opponent Jennifer Brady, 25, for the first time in her professional career.
Osaka congratulated Brady in her victory speech.
“Hello everyone. Hi. Firstly– Do you like to be called Jennifer or Jenny,” Osaka asked Brady.
Brady responded, “Jenny.”
“I want to congratulate Jennifer. We played in the semis of the U.S. Open a couple of months ago, and I told anyone that would listen that you were going to be a problem—and I was right!” she said, turning to her opponent.
The champion also thanked her team.
“I want to thank my team. I’ve been with them too long. We’ve been through quarantine together, and for me, they’re like my family. They’re with me through training, matches, nervous talks before my matches. I’m really appreciative of them– so this one’s for you.”
During a post-game press conference, Osaka expressed that she hoped to inspire female players who come behind her.
“Hopefully, I play long enough to play a girl that said I was once her favorite player,” the vicenarian said.
Osaka’s victory at the Australian Open made her the first woman to win four Grand Slam titles in over three decades. Monica Seles held the record before her, according to the International Tennis Hall of Fame.