After nearly exiting less than a week ago, Naomi Osaka has stormed to a second Australian Open title and fourth Grand Slam success by downing Jennifer Brady.
MORE: Osaka v Brady match stats
Osaka brandished her devastating power game — but mixed in defence at a key moment — to defeat Brady 6-4 6-3 in Saturday night’s final.
Osaka broke into a huge smile when the contest ended in one hour 17 minutes, prior to the players exchanging a hug at the net.
“I didn’t play my last Grand Slam with fans so just to have this energy it means a lot,” Osaka said to the fans during the trophy presentation, cradling the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup.
“Thank you so much for coming. I feel like playing a Grand Slam is a super privilege right now and it’s something I won’t take for granted. Thank you for this opportunity.”