Naomi Osaka created history as she became Japan’s first ever Grand Slam singles champion by winning the final 6-2, 6-4. She won after the global icon, Serena Williams accused the umpire of being a ‘thief’.
The US Open final turned out to be quite dramatic after an angry Serena lashed out on the Umpire. She was looking to win her 24th Grand Slam singles title, which would have tied her with Australia’s Margaret Court for the all-time record.
Williams was given a first code violation after umpire Ramos judged a gesture from coach Patrick Mouratoglou to be coaching, which is allowed on the WTA Tour but not during Grand Slams.
At 3-2 in the second set, Williams was given another code violation for a racquet smash and a third code violation earned her that game penalty, saving Osaka the chore of holding serve.
‘You are a liar. You will never be on a court of mine as long as you live. When are you going to give me my apology? Say you are sorry,’ she told Ramos.
While addressing the crowd during the trophy ceremony, Serena said, ‘I don’t want to be rude, I don’t want to do questions. [Naomi] played well. This is her first grand slam. I know you guys were here rooting and I was rooting too, but let’s make this the best moment we can and we’ll get through it. Let’s give everyone the credit where credit’s due. And let’s not boo anymore. We’re gonna get through this and let’s be positive. Congratulations, Naomi! No more booing.’
‘I know that everyone was cheering for (Serena) and I’m sorry it had to end like this. I just want to say thank you for watching the match,’ Osaka said.
Even with everything going on, Naomi did not her focus from winning. Naomi Osaka, at 20, is the youngest US Open finalist in nine years, since Caroline Wozniacki made the final weekend in 2009 at the age of 19 years and 64 days. Before Naomi, Maria Sharapova was the last player to win the title at 19 in 2006.