Summary
Naomi Osaka apologized for remarks made after her match against Sorana Cirstea at the Australian Open. Cirstea, who is retiring after this season, and Osaka had a brief, tense exchange, which Osaka later regretted. Osaka also discussed her jellyfish-inspired outfit worn during the tournament.
Key Facts
- Naomi Osaka defeated Sorana Cirstea with scores of 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 at the Australian Open.
- After the match, Cirstea gave Osaka a brief handshake and expressed her displeasure.
- Osaka apologized for her comments during the post-match interview, saying she did not want to disrespect anyone.
- Sorana Cirstea is retiring from tennis at the end of the 2026 season after 20 years on the WTA tour.
- Osaka wore a toned-down version of a jellyfish-inspired outfit, which gained attention during the tournament.
- Osaka will face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis in the next round of the Australian Open.
- Czech teenager Nikola Bartunkova caused an upset by defeating Belinda Bencic, the tournament's 10th seed.
