Is this the real final?
Especially after events yesterday on Rod Laver Arena, it’s not a good idea to dismiss the chances of either Ash Barty’s conqueror, Karolína Muchová, or 22nd seed Jennifer Brady, who put an end to the Open run of qualifier Jessica Pegula in the quarter-finals.
That said, however — it’s hard not to see the winner of the title coming from today’s semi-final.
Osaka is in brilliant form, and she has not lost in her last 19 matches. She is looking to win her second title at Melbourne Park in three years, and she looks a decent chance.
The 2018 Australian Open winner has power and speed on the court and she has been
How can you count out the great Serena Williams, however?
The American is two match wins away from equalling Margaret Court’s record of 24 grand slam tournament singles titles.
She has only lost one set all tournament – to seventh seed Aryna Sabalenko in the fourth round.
But far more impressive is the way Williams took care of number two seed Simona Halep in the quarters.
She had far more unforced errors than her opponent, but she overwhelmed Halep, ripping 24 winners to the Romanian’s nine. Her movement and her defensive play also looked on point.
If she finds her range with her passing shots today, then Osaka will have an almighty challenge.
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