Sports
Naomi Osaka beats Serena Williams in controversial US Open final
Naomi Osaka became the first Japanese to win a Grand Slam singles title on Saturday as her idol Serena Williams angrily imploded , calling the chair umpire in the US Open final “ a thief ” .
Osaka , 20 , triumphed 6 – 2 , 6 -4 in the match marred by Williams’ s second set outburst , the American enraged by umpire Carlos Ramos ’ s warning for receiving coaching from her box .
She tearfully accused him of being a “ thief ” and angrily demanded an apology from the official .
When a second code violation for racquet abuse was handed out to her — along with a point penalty — Williams exploded .
“ You’ re attacking my character , ” she said . “ You will never, ever be on another court of mine . You are the liar , ” she fumed and Ramos handed her a game penalty that put Osaka one game from victory at 5 – 3 in the second set .
Williams won the next game , and continued her tearful remonstrations with a supervisor on the changeover but Osaka — who displayed not only a stellar game but remarkable poise throughout — held serve to seal a historic win for her country .
Williams, seeking a first Grand Slam title since the birth of her daughter Olympia on September 1 2017 , was denied a 24 th Grand Slam title that would have matched Margaret Court’ s all – time record .
As the pro – Williams crowed booed the announcers at the trophy presentation, Osaka was tearing up herself , but Williams urged the spectators to show the young champion respect .
“ She played well , ” Williams said , pausing to compose herself . “ This is her first Grand Slam. “ I know you guys were here rooting , but let’ s make this the best moment we can . Let’ s give everyone the credit where credit is due . Let’ s not boo any more . Congratulations Naomi . ”
When it was Osaka ‘ s turn she seemed at a loss .
“ I know everyone was cheering for her and I ’ m sorry it had to end like this, ” she said .
“ It was always my dream to play Serena in the US Open finals , ” she added , turning to Williams herself . “ I ’ m really grateful I was able to play with you , thank you . ”
AFP
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