The 23-time Grand Slam winner, Serena Williams got knocked out of the Australian Open 2021. She lost to Japanese starlet Naomi Osaka in straight sets of 6-3 6-4. Due to this loss, Williams’ quest for her 24th Grand Slam has come to a halt, for now. 

During the match, Williams managed to win 65% of her first-serve points, whereas her opponent won 85% of her first-serve points.

Along with it, Serena managed to convert only two out of seven break points she received. On the other hand, Naomi claimed all the four break points she earned. 

Serena Williams: “Forever in debt and grateful”

After the match, Serena posted a heartfelt message on Instagram that read, “Melbourne and my Australian fans- Today was not ideal outcome or performance but it happens… I am so honored to be able to play in front of you all.

“Your support -your cheers, I only wish I could have done better for you today. I’m forever in debt and grateful to each and every single one of you. I love you, I love you, I love you. I adore you.”

Reflecting on the tournament, Williams had a great run this year at the Australian Open. Seeing her progress in Melbourne this season, fans sensed she had a great chance to win her 24th Grand Slam title. 

With this win today, Osaka leads the head-to-head battle against her childhood idol 3-2. They met recently at the exhibition event ‘A Day at the Drive’ in Adelaide, before traveling to Melbourne. However, the match at the US Open 2018 final will always be remembered.

After winning today, Osaka will play against the World No. 24 Jennifer Brady at the final on Saturday. Brady will play at a Grand Slam final for the first time. 

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