Osaka’s on top of the world with Aussie title

NAOMI OSAKA confirmed a changing of the guard in women’s tennis when she recovered from a dramatic second-set collapse to claim the Australian Open title and her second successive Grand Slam victory.

Victory over Petra Kvitova in yesterday’s final in Melbourne saw Osaka (above) take over as world No1, four months after defeating 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams for the US Open title.

The 21-year-old from Japan, the first Asian man or woman to top the singles rankings, won a thrilling final 7-6, 5-7, 6-4.

And she was quick to pay tribute to her opponent’s career comeback following a stabbing incident two years ago.

Osaka said: “I wouldn’t have wanted this to be our first match, but huge congratulations to you and your team.

“You are amazing and I am honoured to have played you in a Grand Slam final.”

As painful as the loss was, Kvitova was able to put it into perspective.

She said: “I wanted to win and have the trophy. But I think I already won two years ago. So, for me, it’s amazing. I think I still don’t really realise that I played the final.

“I didn’t know if I’m going to hold the racket again. I’m holding it, so that’s good.

“There’s still a few things which I can improve, and we’ll do it. So it’s not the end. I’ll be back for sure.”

At a set and 5-3 with Kvitova facing three match points, Osaka looked poised to stroll over the finish line only to lose four games in a row and the second set.

She had lost her head, too, but one of the most impressive things about her during this past fortnight has been the way she has overcome every mental hurdle placed in front of her.

So it proved again, regaining her focus to take a decisive advantage in the deciding set and holding out for the historic win.