World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Naomi+Osaka">Naomi Osaka</a>'s hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic.

Japanese top seed Osaka, the reigning US and Australian Open champion, crashed to a 6-4, 6-2 defeat to the 42nd-ranked Czech.

Osaka was undone by a shocking 38 unforced errors as she finally ran out of luck in Paris having had to come back from a set down in her first two matches.

"It's amazing, I can't believe it, I am so happy now," said Siniakova, who was the women's doubles champion in Paris in 2018 alongside Barbora Krejcikova.

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First win over a World No.1. First time into the R16 at a Slam. <a href="https://twitter.com/K_Siniakova?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@K_Siniakova</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RG19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RG19</a> <a href="https://t.co/vgAnzJ2x5e">pic.twitter.com/vgAnzJ2x5e</a>
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"I played my best tennis and I hope it continues."

Osaka dropped the first set for the third successive match at the tournament, squandering seven break points in all.

Siniakova made her pay, breaking for 5-4 and taking the opener when Osaka sent back her 16th unforced error of the set.

The Czech, who is the world's number one doubles player, kept up the pressure on the misfiring top seed, breaking for a 3-2 lead in the second set.

Siniakova backed it up with another break for 5-2 off Osaka's third double fault of the match.

Victory was hers on Court Suzanne Lenglen when Osaka unleashed another misguided forehand.

The Czech goes on to face either Madison Keys of the United States or Russian qualifier Anna Blinkova for a place in the quarter-finals in what will be her first appearance in the last 16 of the majors.

Despite being seeded top for the first time at a Slam, the 21-year-old Osaka had never looked convincing in Paris.

She was two points away from defeat in the first round against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova and came back from a set and break down to see off Victoria Azarenka in round two.

Her defeat also means that only four of the top 10 seeds in the women's singles are left in the tournament.

World number one Naomi Osaka's hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic.

World number one Naomi Osaka's hopes of winning a third successive Grand Slam ended Saturday when she was knocked out of the French Open in the third round by unheralded Katerina Siniakova of the Czech Republic. Japanese top seed Osaka, the reigning US and Australian Open champion, crashed to a 6-4, 6-2 defeat to the 42nd-ranked Czech. Osaka was undone by a shocking 38 unforced errors as she finally ran out of luck in Paris having had to come back from a set down in her first two matches. "It's amazing, I can't believe it, I am so happy now," said Siniakova, who was the women's doubles champion in Paris in 2018 alongside Barbora Krejcikova. First win over a World No.1. First time into the R16 at a Slam. @K_Siniakova | #RG19 pic.twitter.com/vgAnzJ2x5e — Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) June 1, 2019 × "I played my best tennis and I hope it continues." Osaka dropped the first set for the third successive match at the tournament, squandering seven break points in all. Siniakova made her pay, breaking for 5-4 and taking the opener when Osaka sent back her 16th unforced error of the set. The Czech, who is the world's number one doubles player, kept up the pressure on the misfiring top seed, breaking for a 3-2 lead in the second set. Siniakova backed it up with another break for 5-2 off Osaka's third double fault of the match. Victory was hers on Court Suzanne Lenglen when Osaka unleashed another misguided forehand. The Czech goes on to face either Madison Keys of the United States or Russian qualifier Anna Blinkova for a place in the quarter-finals in what will be her first appearance in the last 16 of the majors. Despite being seeded top for the first time at a Slam, the 21-year-old Osaka had never looked convincing in Paris. She was two points away from defeat in the first round against Anna Karolina Schmiedlova and came back from a set and break down to see off Victoria Azarenka in round two. Her defeat also means that only four of the top 10 seeds in the women's singles are left in the tournament.

World number one Naomi Osaka knocked out of French Open

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic.

Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals.

Her defeat means Naomi Osaka will retain the world number one spot after Roland Garros.

Martic has now won 14 matches on clay this season, more than any other player on the WTA Tour.

Former world number one Pliskova remains without a Grand Slam title in her career, despite arriving in Paris with high hopes after powering her way to Italian Open triumph in Rome.

The game which saw her broken to fall 5-3 behind in the second set encapsulated an erratic display -- as she served two double faults, missed perhaps the easiest volley seen on the newly-rebuilt Court Philippe Chatrier, and capped it off by drilling the simplest of forehands several feet past the baseline.

Pliskova finished with 28 unforced errors in total, against only 23 winners, while Martic sealed victory with an ace.

The 28-year-old Martic put in a solid performance and is rewarded with a fourth-round tie against an unseeded player as she bids to reach the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic. Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova was knocked out of the French Open on Friday after a 6-3, 6-3 defeat by Croatia's Petra Martic. Czech Pliskova produced an error-strewn display against the 31st seed, who will face either Russian Veronika Kudermetova or Estonia's Kaia Kanepi for a place in the quarter-finals. Her defeat means Naomi Osaka will retain the world number one spot after Roland Garros. Martic has now won 14 matches on clay this season, more than any other player on the WTA Tour. Former world number one Pliskova remains without a Grand Slam title in her career, despite arriving in Paris with high hopes after powering her way to Italian Open triumph in Rome. The game which saw her broken to fall 5-3 behind in the second set encapsulated an erratic display -- as she served two double faults, missed perhaps the easiest volley seen on the newly-rebuilt Court Philippe Chatrier, and capped it off by drilling the simplest of forehands several feet past the baseline. Pliskova finished with 28 unforced errors in total, against only 23 winners, while Martic sealed victory with an ace. The 28-year-old Martic put in a solid performance and is rewarded with a fourth-round tie against an unseeded player as she bids to reach the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam tournament for the first time.

Second seed Karolina Pliskova knocked out of French Open

For the second match running world number one <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-top-seed-naomi-osaka-flirts-with-early-exit-victoria-azarenka-and-del-potro-also-struggle-222421&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiajZvTqMPiAhXV8HMBHeh0A2IQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1PbOLXmuS2pxokxTj-nwby">Naomi Osaka</a> stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

The 21-year-old Japanese lost the first four games against a fired-up former world number one but reacted superbly to claw herself back and claim a 16th successive Grand Slam match win.

She is aiming to win a third successive major having bagged her first two at the US&nbsp;and Australian Opens but she is doing it the hard way in Paris.

Azarenka seemed poised to follow up her first-round win over 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko when she moved 4-2 ahead in the second set playing with the kind of control and aggression that took her to two Australian Open triumphs.

But <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-pulls-out-of-italian-open-due-to-right-thumb-injury-219451&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiajZvTqMPiAhXV8HMBHeh0A2IQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0uV0vjo0tycUhK717zgA3u">Osaka </a>flicked a switch and began pummelling heavy groundstrokes that kept Azarenka at full stretch.

Osaka piled on the pressure when Azarenka served at 5-6 but squandered three set points before finally levelling the match with a screaming backhand winner.

She raced into a 5-1 lead in the decider and although Azarenka grabbed the next two games, Osaka kept her focus to reach the third round.

For the second match running world number one Naomi Osaka stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3.

For the second match running world number one Naomi Osaka stared at an early French Open exit but once again she fought like a champion, recovering from a woeful start to beat Victoria Azarenka 4-6, 7-5, 6-3. The 21-year-old Japanese lost the first four games against a fired-up former world number one but reacted superbly to claw herself back and claim a 16th successive Grand Slam match win. She is aiming to win a third successive major having bagged her first two at the US and Australian Opens but she is doing it the hard way in Paris. Azarenka seemed poised to follow up her first-round win over 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko when she moved 4-2 ahead in the second set playing with the kind of control and aggression that took her to two Australian Open triumphs. But Osaka flicked a switch and began pummelling heavy groundstrokes that kept Azarenka at full stretch. Osaka piled on the pressure when Azarenka served at 5-6 but squandered three set points before finally levelling the match with a screaming backhand winner. She raced into a 5-1 lead in the decider and although Azarenka grabbed the next two games, Osaka kept her focus to reach the third round.

French Open: Naomi Osaka survives again to battle past Victoria Azarenka into third round

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-alexander-zverev-defeats-john-millman-to-enter-second-round-222336">second round of the French Open.</a>

On a windy and chilly day at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-french-open-champion-jelena-ostapenko-blows-out-in-first-round-again-222347">Roland Garros</a>, world number one Osaka, who won the US&nbsp;and the Australian Opens, lost the opening set to love against Slovakian Anna Karolina Schmiedlova before rallying back for a 0-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory.

Defending champion Simona Halep, Osaka's potential semi-final opponent, lost her way in the second set against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory on a windswept Court Philippe Chatrier.

In the men's draw, German fifth seed Alexander Zverev was also pegged back during his match against Australian John Millman and needed five sets to progress after winning the first two.

Last year's semi-finalist Juan Martin Del Potro also huffed and puffed into round two with a four-set win against Nicolas Jarry of Chile.

Victoria Azarenka avoided the fate of fellow former world number ones Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki, who were knocked out in the first round, when she beat 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets.

Osaka had the biggest scare, however, as spots of rain and swirling winds disrupted her game with the Japanese failing to put a mark on the scoreboard in the first set.

Schmiedlova twice served for the match, only for Osaka to raise her game and force the contest into a decisive third set during which her variety of shots and power proved too much to handle for the world number 90.

Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in the first round.

Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 -&nbsp;the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era.

He became the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, aged 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open.

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the second round of the French Open.

Naomi Osaka's quest for a third consecutive Grand Slam title almost came to an abrupt end on Tuesday as a number of top players struggled to book their spots in the second round of the French Open. On a windy and chilly day at Roland Garros, world number one Osaka, who won the US and the Australian Opens, lost the opening set to love against Slovakian Anna Karolina Schmiedlova before rallying back for a 0-6, 7-6(4), 6-1 victory. Defending champion Simona Halep, Osaka's potential semi-final opponent, lost her way in the second set against Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in a 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory on a windswept Court Philippe Chatrier. In the men's draw, German fifth seed Alexander Zverev was also pegged back during his match against Australian John Millman and needed five sets to progress after winning the first two. Last year's semi-finalist Juan Martin Del Potro also huffed and puffed into round two with a four-set win against Nicolas Jarry of Chile. Victoria Azarenka avoided the fate of fellow former world number ones Angelique Kerber and Caroline Wozniacki, who were knocked out in the first round, when she beat 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko in straight sets. Osaka had the biggest scare, however, as spots of rain and swirling winds disrupted her game with the Japanese failing to put a mark on the scoreboard in the first set. Schmiedlova twice served for the match, only for Osaka to raise her game and force the contest into a decisive third set during which her variety of shots and power proved too much to handle for the world number 90. Croatia's Ivo Karlovic became the oldest man to win a match at the French Open for 46 years as he beat Spain's fellow veteran Feliciano Lopez in the first round. Karlovic, who turned 40 in February, won a match featuring players with a combined age of 77 - the oldest in a Grand Slam in the professional era. He became the oldest male player to win a Grand Slam match since Ken Rosewall, aged 44, did so at the 1978 Australian Open.

French Open: Top seed Naomi Osaka flirts with early exit, Victoria Azarenka and Del Potro also struggle

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-pulls-out-of-italian-open-due-to-right-thumb-injury-219451">World number one Osaka pulled out</a> of her quarter-final meeting with Kiki Bertens due to a thumb injury before 37-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-out-of-italian-open-with-right-leg-injury-219425">Federer announced his withdrawal</a> because of a problem to his right leg.

Djokovic beat Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 7-6, (8-6), 6-4 in a three-hour thriller in the final match of the day to set up a semi-final with another Argentine Diego Schwartzman.

The world number one saved two match points in a second set tiebreak before edging to victory in the final set after a match that brought out some scintillating tennis from both players.

Djokovic will now meet Schwartzman on Saturday after the world number 24 beat Japanese sixth seed Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-2.&nbsp;

Defending Italian Open champion Nadal set up a semi-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas thanks to a 6-4, 6-0 win over fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco.

A week after losing to the Greek at the same stage of the Madrid Open, the 32-year-old Nadal will be eager to prove that defeat was just a blip as the Spaniard fine-tunes his game ahead of his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title.&nbsp;

The 20-year-old Greek progressed after Federer's withdrawal.

Nadal went 2-0 down against Verdasco before surviving three break points at 4-4 in the first set, but the second seed pulled away by winning eight consecutive games to continue his hunt for a ninth title in Rome.

"I was not playing badly at the beginning at all but he was playing unbelievable (tennis)," Nadal told reporters.

"No mistakes, a lot of winners, taking the ball early. It was a very difficult first set. It was one of the first sets that I am happier with. I think I had a good feeling during the whole match. Then after winning that first set, in the second, of course, he slows down a little bit, but I was able to play a little bit more aggressive with the forehand'', Nadal said.

"I did a lot of things well. I am very happy to be in the semi-finals again. It's a good victory", he added.

In the women's draw, Konta booked her first semi-final in Rome with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Czech Marketa Vondrousova.

The Briton, who defeated Americans Sloane Stephens and Venus Williams in her two matches on Thursday, will face sixth seed Bertens on Saturday after the Madrid Open champion progressed as a result of Osaka's withdrawal.&nbsp;

Konta, celebrating her 28th birthday, hit 42 winners against the 19-year-old Vondrousova and dominated the final set to clinch victory in one hour, 53 minutes.

She heads towards this month's French Open in fine form on clay, having finished runner-up in the Morocco Open at the start of May.&nbsp;

Fourth seed Karolina Pliskova recorded her 500th career win with a 6-7, (5-7), 6-2, 6-2 victory over Victoria Azarenka.

She will face Maria Sakkari in the other semi-final after the Greek defeated fellow qualifier Kristina Mladenovic 5-7, 6-3, 6-0.

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems.

Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal and Johanna Konta progressed to the Italian Open semi-finals on Friday, but Roger Federer and Naomi Osaka were forced to withdraw with injury problems. World number one Osaka pulled out of her quarter-final meeting with Kiki Bertens due to a thumb injury before 37-year-old Federer announced his withdrawal because of a problem to his right leg. Djokovic beat Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 7-6, (8-6), 6-4 in a three-hour thriller in the final match of the day to set up a semi-final with another Argentine Diego Schwartzman. The world number one saved two match points in a second set tiebreak before edging to victory in the final set after a match that brought out some scintillating tennis from both players. Djokovic will now meet Schwartzman on Saturday after the world number 24 beat Japanese sixth seed Kei Nishikori 6-4, 6-2. Defending Italian Open champion Nadal set up a semi-final with Stefanos Tsitsipas thanks to a 6-4, 6-0 win over fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco. A week after losing to the Greek at the same stage of the Madrid Open, the 32-year-old Nadal will be eager to prove that defeat was just a blip as the Spaniard fine-tunes his game ahead of his bid for a 12th Roland Garros title. The 20-year-old Greek progressed after Federer's withdrawal. Nadal went 2-0 down against Verdasco before surviving three break points at 4-4 in the first set, but the second seed pulled away by winning eight consecutive games to continue his hunt for a ninth title in Rome. "I was not playing badly at the beginning at all but he was playing unbelievable (tennis)," Nadal told reporters. "No mistakes, a lot of winners, taking the ball early. It was a very difficult first set. It was one of the first sets that I am happier with. I think I had a good feeling during the whole match. Then after winning that first set, in the second, of course, he slows down a little bit, but I was able to play a little bit more aggressive with the forehand'', Nadal said. "I did a lot of things well. I am very happy to be in the semi-finals again. It's a good victory", he added. In the women's draw, Konta booked her first semi-final in Rome with a 6-3, 3-6, 6-1 win over Czech Marketa Vondrousova. The Briton, who defeated Americans Sloane Stephens and Venus Williams in her two matches on Thursday, will face sixth seed Bertens on Saturday after the Madrid Open champion progressed as a result of Osaka's withdrawal. Konta, celebrating her 28th birthday, hit 42 winners against the 19-year-old Vondrousova and dominated the final set to clinch victory in one hour, 53 minutes. She heads towards this month's French Open in fine form on clay, having finished runner-up in the Morocco Open at the start of May. Fourth seed Karolina Pliskova recorded her 500th career win with a 6-7, (5-7), 6-2, 6-2 victory over Victoria Azarenka. She will face Maria Sakkari in the other semi-final after the Greek defeated fellow qualifier Kristina Mladenovic 5-7, 6-3, 6-0.

Italian Open: Djokovic, Nadal and Konta progress to semis, Osaka and Federer bow out with injury

Japan's tennis star <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/italian-open-roger-federer-rafael-nadal-and-naomi-osaka-through-to-last-16-219212">Naomi Osaka</a> withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters.&nbsp;

She added, "I tried to practise and grip my racket but I couldn't, and I kept feeling this pain when I tried to move my hand in different directions."&nbsp;

Osaka was due to meet sixth seed Kiki Bertens for a place in the final four in Rome.&nbsp;

"Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today."&nbsp;

The injury casts doubts over Osaka's participation in this month's French Open, which is scheduled to kick off from May 26.

However, she refused to rule out competing in Roland Garros.

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"I'm kind of in between sad and disappointed."<a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a> speaks with the press following her withdrawal from the <a href="https://twitter.com/InteBNLdItalia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@InteBNLdItalia</a> 
 
Full press conference--&gt; <a href="https://t.co/1jtfspyngh">https://t.co/1jtfspyngh</a> <a href="https://t.co/Doh4B5CdB7">pic.twitter.com/Doh4B5CdB7</a>
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"Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today.

"I didn't feel anything yesterday. That's why I'm kind of confused right now because I literally woke up in the morning and couldn't move my thumb. So I was like, maybe I slept on it and maybe it will go away, but it didn't."

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters.

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka withdrew from the Italian Open quarter-finals on Friday with a right thumb injury. "I woke up this morning and couldn't really move my thumb," Osaka told reporters. She added, "I tried to practise and grip my racket but I couldn't, and I kept feeling this pain when I tried to move my hand in different directions." Osaka was due to meet sixth seed Kiki Bertens for a place in the final four in Rome. "Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today." The injury casts doubts over Osaka's participation in this month's French Open, which is scheduled to kick off from May 26. However, she refused to rule out competing in Roland Garros. "I'm kind of in between sad and disappointed."@Naomi_Osaka_ speaks with the press following her withdrawal from the @InteBNLdItalia Full press conference--> https://t.co/1jtfspyngh pic.twitter.com/Doh4B5CdB7 — WTA (@WTA) May 17, 2019 × "Right now I'm... in between sad and disappointed because I really wanted to play my match today. For me, it was sort of a test to play against Kiki because she's playing really well and I wanted to see how well I could do today. "I didn't feel anything yesterday. That's why I'm kind of confused right now because I literally woke up in the morning and couldn't move my thumb. So I was like, maybe I slept on it and maybe it will go away, but it didn't."

Naomi Osaka pulls out of Italian Open due to right thumb injury

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/injured-serena-williams-withdraws-while-alexander-zverev-crashes-out-in-italian-open-218888&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiFh4ecoaDiAhXVjOYKHQWrBKgQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw262nKqHdHwq4495Ay-jl2Q">Italian Open</a> for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday.

The Swiss had criticised organisers for doubling ticket prices after he confirmed his participation last weekend but the fans who had made their way into Foro Italico on Thursday have been rewarded with a Federer double bill.

With rain having washed out Wednesday's play, Federer along with champion <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/nick-kyrgios-calls-novak-djokovic-cringeworthy-and-rafael-nadal-salty-in-unfiltered-podcast-219103&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp6bDBoaDiAhUx6nMBHUiVAa8QFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2nqPQHAlMDxq9Q1yGmRchB">Rafael Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic</a> all face playing back-to-back matches on Thursday if they want to reach the quarter-finals.

The backlog means that fans on the secondary Grandstand Court can also look forward to a blockbuster schedule as Federer will be back for an evening showdown with Croatian Borna Coric.

Earlier in the day, Nadal had treated the Grandstand fans to a 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Frenchman Jeremy Chardy and the Spaniard will be back on action on the main stage against Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili.

Women's world number one Naomi Osaka produced a solid performance to beat Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova 6-3, 6-3 in the day's opener.

Djokovic, fresh from winning last week's Madrid Open, was playing Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the round of 32.

A clash with either Philipp Kohlschreiber or Marco Cecchinato will be the winner's reward.

The 37-year old Federer moved around the court like his younger self as he rifled in 17 winners in the opening set, having broken Sousa in the seventh game before he saved a triple break point, the last one with a stunning crosscourt forehand.

Having broken Sousa's serve in the opening game of the second set, the Swiss maestro was at his best again in the seventh as he saved a double break point and went on to wrap up the entertaining contest.&nbsp;

"I came out of the blocks well and held serve throughout, so I am very happy to be in the next round," said Federer.

"I played today already and Borna didn't. I don't know whether it's a disadvantage or not but either way it's going to be tough", Federer added.&nbsp;

After crashing out in the semi-finals on home soil in Madrid, Nadal wasted no time in making a statement of intent as he blew away Chardy.&nbsp;

Nadal won 80 per cent of the points on both his first and second serve as he tormented the Frenchman with a barrage of stinging baseline shots.&nbsp;

Osaka made a slow start against Cibulkova as the Slovakian broke the world number one in the third game of the opening set but regained her composure quickly.

The Japanese served two aces to save a double break point in the eighth game and enjoyed plain sailing for the rest of the tie after clinching the game with a service winner.&nbsp;

In the men`s draw, Fernando Verdasco ground out a surprise 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 win over fifth seed Dominic Thiem, as did Jan-Lennard Struff with a 6-2, 6-3 hammering of Marin Cilic.&nbsp;

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the Italian Open for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday.

Former world number one Roger Federer marked his return to the Italian Open for the first time since 2016 with a 6-4, 6-3 second round win over Joao Sousa on Thursday. The Swiss had criticised organisers for doubling ticket prices after he confirmed his participation last weekend but the fans who had made their way into Foro Italico on Thursday have been rewarded with a Federer double bill. With rain having washed out Wednesday's play, Federer along with champion Rafael Nadal and top seed Novak Djokovic all face playing back-to-back matches on Thursday if they want to reach the quarter-finals. The backlog means that fans on the secondary Grandstand Court can also look forward to a blockbuster schedule as Federer will be back for an evening showdown with Croatian Borna Coric. Earlier in the day, Nadal had treated the Grandstand fans to a 6-0, 6-1 demolition of Frenchman Jeremy Chardy and the Spaniard will be back on action on the main stage against Georgia's Nikoloz Basilashvili. Women's world number one Naomi Osaka produced a solid performance to beat Slovakian Dominika Cibulkova 6-3, 6-3 in the day's opener. Djokovic, fresh from winning last week's Madrid Open, was playing Canadian Denis Shapovalov in the round of 32. A clash with either Philipp Kohlschreiber or Marco Cecchinato will be the winner's reward. The 37-year old Federer moved around the court like his younger self as he rifled in 17 winners in the opening set, having broken Sousa in the seventh game before he saved a triple break point, the last one with a stunning crosscourt forehand. Having broken Sousa's serve in the opening game of the second set, the Swiss maestro was at his best again in the seventh as he saved a double break point and went on to wrap up the entertaining contest. "I came out of the blocks well and held serve throughout, so I am very happy to be in the next round," said Federer. "I played today already and Borna didn't. I don't know whether it's a disadvantage or not but either way it's going to be tough", Federer added. After crashing out in the semi-finals on home soil in Madrid, Nadal wasted no time in making a statement of intent as he blew away Chardy. Nadal won 80 per cent of the points on both his first and second serve as he tormented the Frenchman with a barrage of stinging baseline shots. Osaka made a slow start against Cibulkova as the Slovakian broke the world number one in the third game of the opening set but regained her composure quickly. The Japanese served two aces to save a double break point in the eighth game and enjoyed plain sailing for the rest of the tie after clinching the game with a service winner. In the men`s draw, Fernando Verdasco ground out a surprise 4-6, 6-4, 7-5 win over fifth seed Dominic Thiem, as did Jan-Lennard Struff with a 6-2, 6-3 hammering of Marin Cilic.

Italian Open: Federer, Nadal and Naomi Osaka sail through to last 16

Former world no. 1 Justine Henin won 7 Grand Slam titles in a five year span from 2003 to 2007. Four of them came on the iconic clay courts of Roland Garros including three in a row from 2005 to 2007. On a visit to India as an ambassador for the French Open, Henin spoke exclusively to WION - reflecting on her remarkable career, analysing the current state of women's tennis and picking her players to watch out for at the 2019 French Open.

WION Exclusive with Tennis Legend Justine Henin

World number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Saturday's semi-finals at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart after failing to recover from an abdominal injury she suffered in her quarter-final match.

The top seed's withdrawal gives her opponent Anett Kontaveit a walkover and the Estonian goes through to Sunday's final where she will face the Czech Republic's Petra Kvitova.

"I'm really sorry I'm not able to compete for the semis today," Osaka said. "I, unfortunately, got injured yesterday and I was waiting till today to see if I could get better.

"But unfortunately, I didn't. I'm really sorry for everyone that came out and I hope to see you next year and I hope to play next year."

The two-times Grand Slam champion had pulled off an epic comeback from 1-5 down in the final set on Friday when she beat Croatian Donna Vekic 6-3 4-6 7-6(4) despite struggling on the clay surface, making 45 unforced errors.

Saturday's other semi-final went the distance as world number three Kvitova beat Kiki Bertens 7-6(3) 3-6 6-1 in an engrossing physical battle that clocked two hours.

Both players exchanged breaks of serve early in the opening set and the pair looked to use every inch of the court and the indoor stadium with one of Kvitova's lobs hitting the roof of the Porsche-Arena to give Bertens the point.

Bertens then saved set points on her serve, preventing Kvitova from breaking her, to take the first set into a tiebreak. But Kvitova controlled proceedings to win the decider.

However, Bertens raised her game in the second set and stormed back into the match with a mixture of powerful baseline shots and delicate chips which had Kvitova scampering around the court to keep up with the Dutchwoman.

Kvitova regained control and broke twice in the final set to take a quick 5-0 lead, putting Bertens on the back foot with deep cross-court shots. The Czech even employed serve-and-volley to take points off her bewildered opponent.

Bertens never recovered and despite successfully serving to stay in the match and getting on the scoreboard, Kvitova served out to win the match and book her place in the final.

"I'm always playing three-setters with Kiki so I didn't expect anything easier today," Kvitova said after she reached her fourth final of the year. "I'm just glad I was able to stay in the rallies and return her serve.

"I really had to be patient and I had to wait for a good shot to go for the winner. Overall, I was pretty good on the legs (to move around the court) today."

World number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Saturday's semi-finals at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart after failing to recover from an abdominal injury she suffered in her quarter-final match.

World number one Naomi Osaka has pulled out of Saturday's semi-finals at the Porsche Tennis Grand Prix in Stuttgart after failing to recover from an abdominal injury she suffered in her quarter-final match. The top seed's withdrawal gives her opponent Anett Kontaveit a walkover and the Estonian goes through to Sunday's final where she will face the Czech Republic's Petra Kvitova. "I'm really sorry I'm not able to compete for the semis today," Osaka said. "I, unfortunately, got injured yesterday and I was waiting till today to see if I could get better. "But unfortunately, I didn't. I'm really sorry for everyone that came out and I hope to see you next year and I hope to play next year." The two-times Grand Slam champion had pulled off an epic comeback from 1-5 down in the final set on Friday when she beat Croatian Donna Vekic 6-3 4-6 7-6(4) despite struggling on the clay surface, making 45 unforced errors. Saturday's other semi-final went the distance as world number three Kvitova beat Kiki Bertens 7-6(3) 3-6 6-1 in an engrossing physical battle that clocked two hours. Both players exchanged breaks of serve early in the opening set and the pair looked to use every inch of the court and the indoor stadium with one of Kvitova's lobs hitting the roof of the Porsche-Arena to give Bertens the point. Bertens then saved set points on her serve, preventing Kvitova from breaking her, to take the first set into a tiebreak. But Kvitova controlled proceedings to win the decider. However, Bertens raised her game in the second set and stormed back into the match with a mixture of powerful baseline shots and delicate chips which had Kvitova scampering around the court to keep up with the Dutchwoman. Kvitova regained control and broke twice in the final set to take a quick 5-0 lead, putting Bertens on the back foot with deep cross-court shots. The Czech even employed serve-and-volley to take points off her bewildered opponent. Bertens never recovered and despite successfully serving to stay in the match and getting on the scoreboard, Kvitova served out to win the match and book her place in the final. "I'm always playing three-setters with Kiki so I didn't expect anything easier today," Kvitova said after she reached her fourth final of the year. "I'm just glad I was able to stay in the rallies and return her serve. "I really had to be patient and I had to wait for a good shot to go for the winner. Overall, I was pretty good on the legs (to move around the court) today."

Naomi Osaka pulls out of Stuttgart semis with injury

Tiger Woods, LeBron James, Mohamed Salah and other athletes in Time's 100 most influential people

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final.

The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot.

Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10.

Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977.&nbsp;

Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings.

Romanian tennis player Simona Halep has moved up to close on world number one Naomi Osaka of Japan in the latest updated Women's Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. Halep who appeared in the Miami Open semi-final last week displaced Czech's Petra Kvitova after the latter lost to Ashleigh Barty of Australia in the final. The Romanian with 5782 points has reduced the lead with number one Osaka, who has retained 6021 points, to attain number two spot. Petra Kvitova (5645), Karolina Pliskova (5580) of Czech Republic and Germany's Angelique Kerber (5165), Dutch's Kiki Bertens (5050), Ukraine's Elina Svitolina (5020), Sloane Stephens of America (4287), Australia's Ashleigh Barty (4275) and Belarus' Aryna Sabalenka (3595) completed the top 10. Bertens at number six obtained a new career-high ranking. She is now just one spot away to earn the highest ever ranking achieved by a Dutchwoman -- Betty Stove's world number five peak in 1977. Barty at number nine has become the 10th player from her country to achieve the feat following her brilliant victory at the Miami Open.

WTA rankings: Simona Halep closes on world no.1 Naomi Osaka

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer.

After facing eight-times Miami champion Serena Williams in her first match last year, Osaka might have expected an easier opener on Friday against the 141st-ranked Belgian qualifier.

Yet that was not the case as she needed more than two hours to dispose of her Belgian opponent, having dispatched the 23-times grand slam singles champion 6-3, 6-2 a year earlier.

"It was really hard for me, I think, emotionally in the second set because I just started thinking about winning, not exactly the things I could do in order to win," said Osaka.

"I had a bit of a dip. She was also playing really well."

The first match on Stadium Court, the contest again looked like it might wrap up before the late arrivals had settled in but it turned into a head scratcher for Osaka that ebbed and flowed between dominance and despair.

The Japanese, who had been firing on all cylinders while Wickmayer sleepwalked through a one-sided opening set, suddenly began to sputter in the second as the Belgian woke from her slumber.

Letting her foot off the gas, the Australian and US&nbsp;Open champion was left muttering to herself and flipping her racket as shots that had been finding their target minutes before were sprayed all over the temporary court allowing Wickmayer back into the match.

Yet just as quickly as Osaka lost her way the 21-year-old got back on track in the third set, securing the early break on her way to a 3-0 lead and a topsy-turvy victory.

Although South Florida is home for Osaka, the Miami stop has not been kind to the Japanese, who has never ventured past the third round.

Osaka will next face Taiwan's 27th seed Hsieh Su-wei, who was a 6-2, 7-5 winner over American Alison Riske.

"I consider Miami a home," said Osaka. "I definitely always want to do well here whenever I play.

"I haven't really done well here compared to the other tournaments. It's definitely been a really big goal of mine."

Serena Williams regained her form after a shaky second set to dispatch Rebecca Peterson of Sweden 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a third-round clash with China's Wang Qiang.

"I knew I could play a lot better than I was playing," Williams said of her error-ridden second set.

"I just said, 'Ok you're better than this, Serena."

It was the 10th-seeded American's first time on court since retiring during her third-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells with an illness earlier this month.

After a dramatic comeback win in her opening match, Canadian teen Bianca Andreescu took a more confident step towards the 'Sunshine Double', disposing of American 22nd seed Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3 to reach the third round.

The youngest player to win Indian Wells since Serena Williams in 1999, Andreescu is bidding to become just the fourth woman to win both there and Miami back-to-back in the same year.

While Andreescu's run continues, two other promising American teenagers saw their time in Miami come to an end.

After picking up her first career WTA Tour event win on Thursday, 15-year-old Cori Gauff fell to 14th-seeded Russian Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 6-2 while 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova lost 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 to Estonian Anett Kontaveit.

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer.

World number one Naomi Osaka endured a rollercoaster start to the Miami Open on Friday, advancing to the third round with a 6-0, 6-7(3), 6-1 win over Belgian Yanina Wickmayer. After facing eight-times Miami champion Serena Williams in her first match last year, Osaka might have expected an easier opener on Friday against the 141st-ranked Belgian qualifier. Yet that was not the case as she needed more than two hours to dispose of her Belgian opponent, having dispatched the 23-times grand slam singles champion 6-3, 6-2 a year earlier. "It was really hard for me, I think, emotionally in the second set because I just started thinking about winning, not exactly the things I could do in order to win," said Osaka. "I had a bit of a dip. She was also playing really well." The first match on Stadium Court, the contest again looked like it might wrap up before the late arrivals had settled in but it turned into a head scratcher for Osaka that ebbed and flowed between dominance and despair. The Japanese, who had been firing on all cylinders while Wickmayer sleepwalked through a one-sided opening set, suddenly began to sputter in the second as the Belgian woke from her slumber. Letting her foot off the gas, the Australian and US Open champion was left muttering to herself and flipping her racket as shots that had been finding their target minutes before were sprayed all over the temporary court allowing Wickmayer back into the match. Yet just as quickly as Osaka lost her way the 21-year-old got back on track in the third set, securing the early break on her way to a 3-0 lead and a topsy-turvy victory. Although South Florida is home for Osaka, the Miami stop has not been kind to the Japanese, who has never ventured past the third round. Osaka will next face Taiwan's 27th seed Hsieh Su-wei, who was a 6-2, 7-5 winner over American Alison Riske. "I consider Miami a home," said Osaka. "I definitely always want to do well here whenever I play. "I haven't really done well here compared to the other tournaments. It's definitely been a really big goal of mine." Serena Williams regained her form after a shaky second set to dispatch Rebecca Peterson of Sweden 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 to set up a third-round clash with China's Wang Qiang. "I knew I could play a lot better than I was playing," Williams said of her error-ridden second set. "I just said, 'Ok you're better than this, Serena." It was the 10th-seeded American's first time on court since retiring during her third-round match at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells with an illness earlier this month. After a dramatic comeback win in her opening match, Canadian teen Bianca Andreescu took a more confident step towards the 'Sunshine Double', disposing of American 22nd seed Sofia Kenin 6-3, 6-3 to reach the third round. The youngest player to win Indian Wells since Serena Williams in 1999, Andreescu is bidding to become just the fourth woman to win both there and Miami back-to-back in the same year. While Andreescu's run continues, two other promising American teenagers saw their time in Miami come to an end. After picking up her first career WTA Tour event win on Thursday, 15-year-old Cori Gauff fell to 14th-seeded Russian Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 6-2 while 17-year-old Amanda Anisimova lost 6-3, 1-6, 6-4 to Estonian Anett Kontaveit.

Naomi Osaka enjoys rollercoaster win in Miami

Canadian tennis player <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unseeded-bianca-andreescu-stuns-angelique-kerber-in-three-sets-to-win-indian-wells-singles-title-203950">Bianca Andreescu</a> followed in the footsteps of another teen sensation Naomi Osaka, who was a little-known 20-year-old when she won the title last year.&nbsp;

Osaka used it as a springboard to win titles at the US and Australian opens while ascending to the world number one ranking in January.&nbsp;

"Naomi (Osaka) did this last year and now to be able to have my name in front of so many amazing champions it means the world to me," said Andreescu during the post-match press conference.&nbsp;

"It's been a crazy ride, truly a Cinderella story," she added.&nbsp;

Andreescu became the first wild card to win the WTA title at Indian Wells on with a gritty 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 victory over Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber.&nbsp;

Ranked 60th coming into the tournament, Andreescu will rise to 24th in the world with her first WTA title.&nbsp;

When she finally converted her fourth match point she kissed the sun-baked court and flopped spread-eagled on her back.&nbsp;

The 18-year-old shook off fatigue and rallied from a break down in the third set to topple the eighth-ranked German.&nbsp;

"I was actually praying, like every point, because I started cramping at 5-4 and then… no, actually at 5-3 and then it was crazy," reacted Andreescu after his historic win.&nbsp;

"I just prayed and then God did its stuff and then I managed to pull through," she added.&nbsp;

Canadian tennis player Bianca Andreescu followed in the footsteps of another teen sensation Naomi Osaka, who was a little-known 20-year-old when she won the title last year.

Canadian tennis player Bianca Andreescu followed in the footsteps of another teen sensation Naomi Osaka, who was a little-known 20-year-old when she won the title last year. Osaka used it as a springboard to win titles at the US and Australian opens while ascending to the world number one ranking in January. "Naomi (Osaka) did this last year and now to be able to have my name in front of so many amazing champions it means the world to me," said Andreescu during the post-match press conference. "It's been a crazy ride, truly a Cinderella story," she added. Andreescu became the first wild card to win the WTA title at Indian Wells on with a gritty 6-4, 3-6, 6-4 victory over Wimbledon champion Angelique Kerber. Ranked 60th coming into the tournament, Andreescu will rise to 24th in the world with her first WTA title. When she finally converted her fourth match point she kissed the sun-baked court and flopped spread-eagled on her back. The 18-year-old shook off fatigue and rallied from a break down in the third set to topple the eighth-ranked German. "I was actually praying, like every point, because I started cramping at 5-4 and then… no, actually at 5-3 and then it was crazy," reacted Andreescu after his historic win. "I just prayed and then God did its stuff and then I managed to pull through," she added.

Naomi Osaka inspired Bianca Andreescu to claim Indian Wells title

Naomi Osaka followed Simona Halep through the exit door at the BNP Paribas Open on Tuesday as the top two players in the world were sent packing in the fourth round at Indian Wells.

World number one Osaka never found her rhythm against Belinda Bencic as the Swiss used her precise groundstrokes and pinpoint serving to topple the defending champion 6-3 6-1 in just over an hour.

The 22-year-old Bencic, who has risen as high as world number seven before missing time with injuries, hit a forehand volley on match point to seal the win and send her into the quarter-finals.

"I was really happy with the performance," Bencic told Tennis Channel. "It wasn't as easy as the result is saying and I didn't expect it like that, so definitely happy."

Bencic, the world number 23, has made a habit of upending top 10 players of late, defeating four en route to winning the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships last month.

She will have another shot at a top-10 player when she takes on hard-hitting world number five Karolina Pliskova, who smashed 13 aces to dispatch Anett Kontaveit 7-6(0) 4-6 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals.

Osaka's loss ended a bad day for world number ones after the men's top player, Serb Novak Djokovic, fell 6-4 6-4 to Philipp Kohlschreiber.

Earlier in the day, Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova ran Halep ragged before dumping the Romanian out of the tournament 6-2 3-6 6-2.

Halep, who received medical treatment for blisters on her foot during the match, won less than half of her first-service points and hit just six winners to go with 36 unforced errors.

"I was running too much and too defensive," the Romanian told reporters. "But it's everything I could do today."

Halep's loss ensured Osaka will retain her number one ranking after the tournament.

The win was 19-year-old Vondrousova's first over a top-10 player in six attempts.

"I think I'm playing well all week but this is something special because she's number two in the world," Vondrousova said. "I was just fighting for every point."

Another teenager, unseeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, upset 18th seed Wang Qiang of China 7-5 6-2 to book her place in the quarters. The win was the 18-year-old Andreescu's 25th of the year, the most of any WTA player.

She will next face Garbine Muguruza after the Spaniard battled back to dispatch Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands 5-7 6-1 6-4.

Ukrainian Elina Svitolina came from a break down in the third set to defeat Australian Ashleigh Barty 7-6(8) 5-7 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

Naomi Osaka followed Simona Halep through the exit door at the BNP Paribas Open on Tuesday as the top two players in the world were sent packing in the fourth round at Indian Wells.

Naomi Osaka followed Simona Halep through the exit door at the BNP Paribas Open on Tuesday as the top two players in the world were sent packing in the fourth round at Indian Wells. World number one Osaka never found her rhythm against Belinda Bencic as the Swiss used her precise groundstrokes and pinpoint serving to topple the defending champion 6-3 6-1 in just over an hour. The 22-year-old Bencic, who has risen as high as world number seven before missing time with injuries, hit a forehand volley on match point to seal the win and send her into the quarter-finals. "I was really happy with the performance," Bencic told Tennis Channel. "It wasn't as easy as the result is saying and I didn't expect it like that, so definitely happy." Bencic, the world number 23, has made a habit of upending top 10 players of late, defeating four en route to winning the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships last month. She will have another shot at a top-10 player when she takes on hard-hitting world number five Karolina Pliskova, who smashed 13 aces to dispatch Anett Kontaveit 7-6(0) 4-6 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals. Osaka's loss ended a bad day for world number ones after the men's top player, Serb Novak Djokovic, fell 6-4 6-4 to Philipp Kohlschreiber. Earlier in the day, Czech teenager Marketa Vondrousova ran Halep ragged before dumping the Romanian out of the tournament 6-2 3-6 6-2. Halep, who received medical treatment for blisters on her foot during the match, won less than half of her first-service points and hit just six winners to go with 36 unforced errors. "I was running too much and too defensive," the Romanian told reporters. "But it's everything I could do today." Halep's loss ensured Osaka will retain her number one ranking after the tournament. The win was 19-year-old Vondrousova's first over a top-10 player in six attempts. "I think I'm playing well all week but this is something special because she's number two in the world," Vondrousova said. "I was just fighting for every point." Another teenager, unseeded Canadian Bianca Andreescu, upset 18th seed Wang Qiang of China 7-5 6-2 to book her place in the quarters. The win was the 18-year-old Andreescu's 25th of the year, the most of any WTA player. She will next face Garbine Muguruza after the Spaniard battled back to dispatch Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands 5-7 6-1 6-4. Ukrainian Elina Svitolina came from a break down in the third set to defeat Australian Ashleigh Barty 7-6(8) 5-7 6-4 to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

Naomi Osaka, Simona Halep sent packing from Indian Wells

World number one Naomi Osaka powered into the fourth round at <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/alexander-zverev-beaten-by-compatriot-struff-at-indian-wells-202845">Indian Wells</a> on Monday after a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Danielle Collins.

The 21-year-old Japanese had a shaky start when she was broken early in the first set but quickly found her groove and broke the American four times and struck 29 winners to advance.

The US&nbsp;and Australian Open champion, who is also defending the title at Indian Wells, will next face Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, who beat Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 6-2.

The duo were joined in the fourth round by seven-times Grand Slam champion Venus Williams, who defeated qualifier Christina McHale 6-2, 7-5.

The 38-year-old Williams, who showed her mettle in the second round where she upset world number three Petra Kvitova, will meet unseeded German Mona Barthel in the fourth round.

"I feel definitely more comfortable going into that match than, for example, today," Williams told reporters.

"I had never played (McHale) before, so you feel like you don't really know what's going to happen.

Earlier, Latvian 11th seed Anastasija Sevastova became the latest player to be stuck down with a viral illness at the tournament.

Sevastova was down 5-0 in the first set of her third round match with Estonian 21st seed Anett Kontaveit when she retired.

Her departure came less than 24 hours after Serena Williams was unable to continue her match on Sunday, also citing a viral illness.

Men's third seed Alexander Zverev also said on Monday after losing to fellow German Jan-Lennard Struff that he too had a virus.

Among those women still feeling healthy, three-times grand slam champion Angelique Kerber battled back to beat Russian qualifier Natalia Vikhlyantseva 3-6, 6-1, 6-3.

Kerber took a while to warm to her task on a cool morning in the California desert.

"She was playing really fast and flat, so that was something I was not really expecting," the German said of her opponent.

"I was trying to adjust, especially with my movement at the end of the first set and beginning of the second, and I think that was the key to coming back."

Fifth seed Karolina Pliskova was not at her very best but still prevailed 6-3, 6-2 over Ysaline Bonaventure.

"I felt somehow strange and the match was strange," said Pliskova.

World number one Naomi Osaka powered into the fourth round at Indian Wells on Monday after a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Danielle Collins. The 21-year-old Japanese had a shaky start when she was broken early in the first set but quickly found her groove and broke the American four times and struck 29 winners to advance.

World number one Naomi Osaka powered into the fourth round at Indian Wells on Monday after a 6-4, 6-2 victory over Danielle Collins. The 21-year-old Japanese had a shaky start when she was broken early in the first set but quickly found her groove and broke the American four times and struck 29 winners to advance. The US and Australian Open champion, who is also defending the title at Indian Wells, will next face Switzerland's Belinda Bencic, who beat Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-4, 6-2. The duo were joined in the fourth round by seven-times Grand Slam champion Venus Williams, who defeated qualifier Christina McHale 6-2, 7-5. The 38-year-old Williams, who showed her mettle in the second round where she upset world number three Petra Kvitova, will meet unseeded German Mona Barthel in the fourth round. "I feel definitely more comfortable going into that match than, for example, today," Williams told reporters. "I had never played (McHale) before, so you feel like you don't really know what's going to happen. Earlier, Latvian 11th seed Anastasija Sevastova became the latest player to be stuck down with a viral illness at the tournament. Sevastova was down 5-0 in the first set of her third round match with Estonian 21st seed Anett Kontaveit when she retired. Her departure came less than 24 hours after Serena Williams was unable to continue her match on Sunday, also citing a viral illness. Men's third seed Alexander Zverev also said on Monday after losing to fellow German Jan-Lennard Struff that he too had a virus. Among those women still feeling healthy, three-times grand slam champion Angelique Kerber battled back to beat Russian qualifier Natalia Vikhlyantseva 3-6, 6-1, 6-3. Kerber took a while to warm to her task on a cool morning in the California desert. "She was playing really fast and flat, so that was something I was not really expecting," the German said of her opponent. "I was trying to adjust, especially with my movement at the end of the first set and beginning of the second, and I think that was the key to coming back." Fifth seed Karolina Pliskova was not at her very best but still prevailed 6-3, 6-2 over Ysaline Bonaventure. "I felt somehow strange and the match was strange," said Pliskova.

Naomi Osaka powers into fourth round at Indian Wells

Venus Williams fought back to down third seed Petra Kvitova 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 and reach the BNP Paribas Open third round on Saturday, while Naomi Osaka got her title defence off to a flying start with a straight sets win over Kristina Mladenovic.

World number one Osaka beat Mladenovic 6-3, 6-4, the win under the stadium court lights sweet revenge for the reigning US&nbsp;and Australian Open champion after she lost to the same opponent in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships first round last month.

Osaka said it was the first time she had felt the pressure of defending a title.

"I've never been a defending champion before so I was pretty nervous and I'm glad I got the win," the Japanese 21-year-old said.

American Williams, 38, turned back the clock in the final two sets at Indian Wells, dialling up the speed on her first serves and playing stout defence to seal a win that looked unlikely when she was down a double break in the second set.

The seven-times Grand Slam champion threw her arms in the air and let out a roar when Kvitova sent a ball long on match point -- the Czech's 56th unforced error of the day.

Williams tipped her hat to the two-times Wimbledon champion after the hard-fought contest.

"She has been playing so well and you never know what's going to come off her racket," a beaming Williams said in front of a fawning crowd as night fell on her native Southern California.

"I was just happy to have your energy to get pumped up. I just love the battle."

Earlier, another American, Madison Keys, blew a late lead to fall 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 to German Mona Barthel.

The 17th-seed had the match on her racket serving with a 5-4 lead in the third set but lost three straight games, including her final service game to love, allowing the unseeded Barthel to advance.

Next up for Barthel is a meeting with countrywoman Julia Gorges, who beat Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 behind seven aces in an evening match.

Unheralded Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova upset former world number one Caroline Wozniacki 7-5, 2-6, 7-5 in a battle that lasted nearly two-and-a-half hours in the evening session.

Alexandrova put her hands over her face in disbelief when Wozniacki was unable to return her serve on match point.

The 24-year-old will face Belinda Bencic in the third round on Monday after the Swiss cruised to a 6-4, 6-1 win earlier in the day.

Former world number one Angelique Kerber was nearly perfect en route to a 6-0, 6-2 dismantling of Yulia Putintseva, winning 93 per cent of her first service points under sunny skies.

The eighth seed will meet red-hot Russian Natalia Vikhlyantseva in the third round after the qualifier crushed Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-0.

Czech Karolina Pliskova, Latvian Anastasija Sevastova and Americans Danielle Collins and Christina McHale were among the other players who prevailed in their second-round matches on Saturday.

Venus Williams fought back to down third seed Petra Kvitova 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 and reach the BNP Paribas Open third round on Saturday, while Naomi Osaka got her title defence off to a flying start with a straight sets win over Kristina Mladenovic.

Venus Williams fought back to down third seed Petra Kvitova 4-6, 7-5, 6-4 and reach the BNP Paribas Open third round on Saturday, while Naomi Osaka got her title defence off to a flying start with a straight sets win over Kristina Mladenovic. World number one Osaka beat Mladenovic 6-3, 6-4, the win under the stadium court lights sweet revenge for the reigning US and Australian Open champion after she lost to the same opponent in the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships first round last month. Osaka said it was the first time she had felt the pressure of defending a title. "I've never been a defending champion before so I was pretty nervous and I'm glad I got the win," the Japanese 21-year-old said. American Williams, 38, turned back the clock in the final two sets at Indian Wells, dialling up the speed on her first serves and playing stout defence to seal a win that looked unlikely when she was down a double break in the second set. The seven-times Grand Slam champion threw her arms in the air and let out a roar when Kvitova sent a ball long on match point -- the Czech's 56th unforced error of the day. Williams tipped her hat to the two-times Wimbledon champion after the hard-fought contest. "She has been playing so well and you never know what's going to come off her racket," a beaming Williams said in front of a fawning crowd as night fell on her native Southern California. "I was just happy to have your energy to get pumped up. I just love the battle." Earlier, another American, Madison Keys, blew a late lead to fall 3-6, 6-1, 7-5 to German Mona Barthel. The 17th-seed had the match on her racket serving with a 5-4 lead in the third set but lost three straight games, including her final service game to love, allowing the unseeded Barthel to advance. Next up for Barthel is a meeting with countrywoman Julia Gorges, who beat Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 behind seven aces in an evening match. Unheralded Russian Ekaterina Alexandrova upset former world number one Caroline Wozniacki 7-5, 2-6, 7-5 in a battle that lasted nearly two-and-a-half hours in the evening session. Alexandrova put her hands over her face in disbelief when Wozniacki was unable to return her serve on match point. The 24-year-old will face Belinda Bencic in the third round on Monday after the Swiss cruised to a 6-4, 6-1 win earlier in the day. Former world number one Angelique Kerber was nearly perfect en route to a 6-0, 6-2 dismantling of Yulia Putintseva, winning 93 per cent of her first service points under sunny skies. The eighth seed will meet red-hot Russian Natalia Vikhlyantseva in the third round after the qualifier crushed Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro 6-2, 6-0. Czech Karolina Pliskova, Latvian Anastasija Sevastova and Americans Danielle Collins and Christina McHale were among the other players who prevailed in their second-round matches on Saturday.

Venus Williams surges, defending champ Naomi Osaka nervous but wins at Indian Wells

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls.&nbsp;

An astronaut, a football player and a news anchor were among the new-look, high-achieving Barbies unveiled by toy company Mattel at an anniversary event in Singapore Friday.

A series of successful women have also had dolls made in their image to mark six decades of Barbie.&nbsp;

These include world number one tennis player Naomi Osaka, American actress Yara Shahidi, and the first ever Maori Barbie, modelled after New Zealand sports journalist Melodie Robinson.&nbsp;

"Barbie has come a long way as a role model to show girls that they have choices and can achieve any careers," said Mattel Southeast Asia marketing chief Chris Chan.

Mattel has marked the anniversary by partnering with the Singapore Flyer -- a giant Ferris wheel in the city-state -- to temporarily turn one of the ride's cabins Barbie-themed.

Barbie has attracted her fair share of controversy, not least her pin-up measurements put her at odds with a women's rights movement fighting against unattainable beauty standards.

Mattel has made many changes in the years since, introducing multiple body types and skin tones.

These days more than half of the Barbie dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes, according to the company.

More than one billion Barbies have been sold since her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959.

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls.

Barbie is turning 60, and in an effort to keep up with the times a new range of dolls are being released, including career women and role models to inspire young girls. An astronaut, a football player and a news anchor were among the new-look, high-achieving Barbies unveiled by toy company Mattel at an anniversary event in Singapore Friday. A series of successful women have also had dolls made in their image to mark six decades of Barbie. These include world number one tennis player Naomi Osaka, American actress Yara Shahidi, and the first ever Maori Barbie, modelled after New Zealand sports journalist Melodie Robinson. "Barbie has come a long way as a role model to show girls that they have choices and can achieve any careers," said Mattel Southeast Asia marketing chief Chris Chan. Mattel has marked the anniversary by partnering with the Singapore Flyer -- a giant Ferris wheel in the city-state -- to temporarily turn one of the ride's cabins Barbie-themed. Barbie has attracted her fair share of controversy, not least her pin-up measurements put her at odds with a women's rights movement fighting against unattainable beauty standards. Mattel has made many changes in the years since, introducing multiple body types and skin tones. These days more than half of the Barbie dolls sold around the world have neither blonde hair nor blue eyes, according to the company. More than one billion Barbies have been sold since her debut at the American Toy Fair in New York on March 9, 1959.

Astronaut, football player: Barbie turns 60 with career dolls and role models

World number one Naomi Osaka welcomed US coach Jermaine Jenkins to her team on Thursday, just in time for her title defense at Indian Wells next week.&nbsp;

"Had a great dinner with the team," Japan's US and Australian Open champion said in a Twitter post. "Also taking this moment to thank Jermaine for joining us and coming on board lol."&nbsp;

An article on the WTA website said Jenkins would fill the role of head coach in the wake of Osaka's shock split with coach Sascha Bajin just 17 days after she won a second straight Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Jenkins, 34, is a former US collegiate star who served as hitting partner to Venus Williams from 2015 until the end of last season.&nbsp;

His younger brother Jarmere is Serena Williams's hitting partner.&nbsp;

In January, Jenkins was named&nbsp;by the US Tennis Association as a national women's coach.&nbsp;

Osaka, 21, said in Dubai last week that her split with Bajin was "kind of brewing" in Melbourne and that she didn't expect to be without a coach for long.&nbsp;

"It's not really ideal to go to Indian Wells without a coach," she said.&nbsp;

Women's main draw play in the combined WTA and ATP Masters event in the California desert begins on March 6. Osaka like all the 32 seeded women will enjoy a first-round bye.&nbsp;

World number one Naomi Osaka welcomed US coach Jermaine Jenkins to her team on Thursday, just in time for her title defense at Indian Wells next week. "Had a great dinner with the team," Japan's US and Australian Open champion said in a Twitter post.

World number one Naomi Osaka welcomed US coach Jermaine Jenkins to her team on Thursday, just in time for her title defense at Indian Wells next week. "Had a great dinner with the team," Japan's US and Australian Open champion said in a Twitter post. "Also taking this moment to thank Jermaine for joining us and coming on board lol." An article on the WTA website said Jenkins would fill the role of head coach in the wake of Osaka's shock split with coach Sascha Bajin just 17 days after she won a second straight Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. Jenkins, 34, is a former US collegiate star who served as hitting partner to Venus Williams from 2015 until the end of last season. His younger brother Jarmere is Serena Williams's hitting partner. In January, Jenkins was named by the US Tennis Association as a national women's coach. Osaka, 21, said in Dubai last week that her split with Bajin was "kind of brewing" in Melbourne and that she didn't expect to be without a coach for long. "It's not really ideal to go to Indian Wells without a coach," she said. Women's main draw play in the combined WTA and ATP Masters event in the California desert begins on March 6. Osaka like all the 32 seeded women will enjoy a first-round bye.

Naomi Osaka adds US coach Jermaine Jenkins to team

Naomi&nbsp;Osaka&nbsp;stumbled badly in her first match since winning the Australian Open as the world number one went down in a flurry of errors to exit the Dubai Championships on Tuesday.

Dubai-based Frenchwoman Kristina Mladenovic claimed a 6-3, 6-3 victory to reach the third round as&nbsp;Osaka&nbsp;made 25 unforced errors.

The rout, which featured seven breaks of the&nbsp;Osaka&nbsp;serve, took barely an hour, sending Mladenovic into a Wednesday contest with Carla Suarez Navarro.

"This is my home tournament, I live here," world number 67 Mladenovic said. "It's great to get a win like this in front of a big crowd.

"Beating the number one is always special."

The second set was riddled with seven consecutive breaks of serve before Mladenovic finished off the job with a winner to the empty court on match point.

Osaka&nbsp;stunned the tennis world last week by announcing her split from coach Sascha Bajin despite winning back-to-back Grand Slam titles at the US and Australian Opens.

She said earlier this week that she would not prioritise "success over happiness" when asked about the sacking, and she never looked like winning in Dubai as she also served five double faults.

Earlier on Tuesday, Simona Halep and Petra Kvitova both won their opening matches, while Elina Svitolina made a strong start to her bid for a third straight title.

Kvitova, the 2013 winner, recovered from losing a first-set tiebreak to defeat Katerina Siniakova&nbsp; 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 6-4 and squeeze into the third round.

Halep, Dubai champion in 2015, saw off 2014 Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard 7-6 (7/4), 6-4.

The Romanian said she is still feeling the effects of her weekend final defeat in Doha by Elise Mertens.

"It was a good match because I won it. I tried to finish the points faster because I'm a little bit tired," Halep said.

"She played well, the level was pretty good. At some points I really ran very well. I'm confident. I feel good on court even if I'm tired."

A third former world number one also advanced as Angelique Kerber beat Dalila Jakupovic 7-6 (7/4), 6-3.

Kvitova, Wimbledon champion in 2011 and 2014, said she was unfazed about the early midday start to her match.

"I don't really care if I play the first match," the Australian Open runner-up said. "Now I'm done, so I have a free afternoon.

"I'm not sure what I'm pleased with... maybe with my comeback at the end."

Svitolina benefits from Jabeur injury

Local favourite Ons Jabeur was forced to retire with the Tunisian trailing Svitolina 7-6 (7/4), 4-0.

Jabeur took a fall late in the opening set, rolling her ankle while also hitting her shoulder.

She took a medical timeout out but was only able to carry on in the second set for four games.

Third seed Svitolina is hoping to become the first women to win three Dubai titles.

"That is a big motivation for me here," the Ukrainian said. "Today I didn't really feel in a match mood, I don't know why.&nbsp;

"I was struggling a bit, I had a very slow start. Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

"I told myself that I'm here to make history of the tournament."

Elsewhere, Hsieh Su-Wei defeated Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich 6-1, 6-2 while Viktoria Kuzmova accounted for seventh seed Kiki Bertens, beating this month's St&nbsp;Petersburg champion 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (8/6).

American Jennifer Brady downed French 14th seed Caroline Garcia 6-4, 7-5 as her compatriot Sofia Kenin defeated Russian 11th seed Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 2-6,&nbsp;6-4.

A third US player, Alison Riske, advanced 6-2, 6-3 over Alize Cornet.

Naomi Osaka stumbled badly in her first match since winning the Australian Open as the world number one went down in a flurry of errors to exit the Dubai Championships on Tuesday.

Naomi Osaka stumbled badly in her first match since winning the Australian Open as the world number one went down in a flurry of errors to exit the Dubai Championships on Tuesday. Dubai-based Frenchwoman Kristina Mladenovic claimed a 6-3, 6-3 victory to reach the third round as Osaka made 25 unforced errors. The rout, which featured seven breaks of the Osaka serve, took barely an hour, sending Mladenovic into a Wednesday contest with Carla Suarez Navarro. "This is my home tournament, I live here," world number 67 Mladenovic said. "It's great to get a win like this in front of a big crowd. "Beating the number one is always special." The second set was riddled with seven consecutive breaks of serve before Mladenovic finished off the job with a winner to the empty court on match point. Osaka stunned the tennis world last week by announcing her split from coach Sascha Bajin despite winning back-to-back Grand Slam titles at the US and Australian Opens. She said earlier this week that she would not prioritise "success over happiness" when asked about the sacking, and she never looked like winning in Dubai as she also served five double faults. Earlier on Tuesday, Simona Halep and Petra Kvitova both won their opening matches, while Elina Svitolina made a strong start to her bid for a third straight title. Kvitova, the 2013 winner, recovered from losing a first-set tiebreak to defeat Katerina Siniakova 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 6-4 and squeeze into the third round. Halep, Dubai champion in 2015, saw off 2014 Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard 7-6 (7/4), 6-4. The Romanian said she is still feeling the effects of her weekend final defeat in Doha by Elise Mertens. "It was a good match because I won it. I tried to finish the points faster because I'm a little bit tired," Halep said. "She played well, the level was pretty good. At some points I really ran very well. I'm confident. I feel good on court even if I'm tired." A third former world number one also advanced as Angelique Kerber beat Dalila Jakupovic 7-6 (7/4), 6-3. Kvitova, Wimbledon champion in 2011 and 2014, said she was unfazed about the early midday start to her match. "I don't really care if I play the first match," the Australian Open runner-up said. "Now I'm done, so I have a free afternoon. "I'm not sure what I'm pleased with... maybe with my comeback at the end." Svitolina benefits from Jabeur injury Local favourite Ons Jabeur was forced to retire with the Tunisian trailing Svitolina 7-6 (7/4), 4-0. Jabeur took a fall late in the opening set, rolling her ankle while also hitting her shoulder. She took a medical timeout out but was only able to carry on in the second set for four games. Third seed Svitolina is hoping to become the first women to win three Dubai titles. "That is a big motivation for me here," the Ukrainian said. "Today I didn't really feel in a match mood, I don't know why. "I was struggling a bit, I had a very slow start. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. "I told myself that I'm here to make history of the tournament." Elsewhere, Hsieh Su-Wei defeated Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich 6-1, 6-2 while Viktoria Kuzmova accounted for seventh seed Kiki Bertens, beating this month's St Petersburg champion 6-2, 4-6, 7-6 (8/6). American Jennifer Brady downed French 14th seed Caroline Garcia 6-4, 7-5 as her compatriot Sofia Kenin defeated Russian 11th seed Daria Kasatkina 6-3, 2-6, 6-4. A third US player, Alison Riske, advanced 6-2, 6-3 over Alize Cornet.

Naomi Osaka stunned by Mladenovic in straight sets in Dubai

2019 Laureus World Sports Awards: List of winners

World number one Naomi Osaka was adamant that her shock split with coach Sascha Bajin had nothing to do with money but it was because she was determined that her career would not be about putting "success over happiness".

The German had guided the Japanese player to back-to-back Grand Slam titles as well as to the summit of the WTA rankings. But just two weeks after her triumph at Melbourne Park, Osaka abruptly severed ties with Bajin. That led to suggestions the two had fallen out over money.

"Everyone thinks it was a money-related issue, but it wasn't," the US&nbsp;and Australian Open champion told the WTA in Dubai. "That's one of the most hurtful things I've ever heard.

"I travel with everyone on my team, I see them more than my family. I would never do that to them.

"My reason is I wouldn't put success over my happiness - that's my main thing. I'm not going to sacrifice that just to keep a person around."

Bajin, a former hitting partner of Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka and Caroline Wozniacki, was named as the WTA's coach of the year in 2018 after his success with Osaka.

During their time together, Osaka rocketed from 72 in the world at the start of 2018 to number one last month.

Osaka said it was clear things were not right between them during the season's opening major.

"It was kind of brewing in Australia. I think some people could see that if they saw how we interacted," the 21-year-old added.

"I would not want to split on really bad terms. I'm not going to say anything bad about him because, of course, I'm really grateful for all the things he's done.

"During the Australian Open, I was just trying to tell myself to get through it. I'm not sure, but I think you guys noticed."

Osaka said she hopes to have a new coach in place by March at Indian Wells.

"It's not really ideal to go to Indian Wells without a coach. I don't want someone that's in the box saying negative stuff. That would be the worst," she said.

"(I want) someone that's kind of direct, not afraid to say things to my face. I'd rather someone say it directly to me than go around my back. That's one of the biggest things."

World number one Naomi Osaka was adamant that her shock split with coach Sascha Bajin had nothing to do with money but it was because she was determined that her career would not be about putting "success over happiness".

World number one Naomi Osaka was adamant that her shock split with coach Sascha Bajin had nothing to do with money but it was because she was determined that her career would not be about putting "success over happiness". The German had guided the Japanese player to back-to-back Grand Slam titles as well as to the summit of the WTA rankings. But just two weeks after her triumph at Melbourne Park, Osaka abruptly severed ties with Bajin. That led to suggestions the two had fallen out over money. "Everyone thinks it was a money-related issue, but it wasn't," the US and Australian Open champion told the WTA in Dubai. "That's one of the most hurtful things I've ever heard. "I travel with everyone on my team, I see them more than my family. I would never do that to them. "My reason is I wouldn't put success over my happiness - that's my main thing. I'm not going to sacrifice that just to keep a person around." Bajin, a former hitting partner of Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka and Caroline Wozniacki, was named as the WTA's coach of the year in 2018 after his success with Osaka. During their time together, Osaka rocketed from 72 in the world at the start of 2018 to number one last month. Osaka said it was clear things were not right between them during the season's opening major. "It was kind of brewing in Australia. I think some people could see that if they saw how we interacted," the 21-year-old added. "I would not want to split on really bad terms. I'm not going to say anything bad about him because, of course, I'm really grateful for all the things he's done. "During the Australian Open, I was just trying to tell myself to get through it. I'm not sure, but I think you guys noticed." Osaka said she hopes to have a new coach in place by March at Indian Wells. "It's not really ideal to go to Indian Wells without a coach. I don't want someone that's in the box saying negative stuff. That would be the worst," she said. "(I want) someone that's kind of direct, not afraid to say things to my face. I'd rather someone say it directly to me than go around my back. That's one of the biggest things."

Split with coach Bajin not over money, says Naomi Osaka

World tennis number one Naomi Osaka has split from her coach Sascha Bajin just 17 days after completing back-to-back Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open.

"Hey everyone, I will no longer be working together with Sascha. I thank him for his work and wish him all the best in the future," the 21-year-old Japanese tweeted in a shock announcement.

Bajin, a former hitting partner to Serena Williams, responded: "Thank you Naomi. I wish you nothing but the best as well. What a ride that was. Thank you for letting me be part of this."

Osaka, who became the first Asian to hold the top ranking after beating Czech Petra Kvitova in the Melbourne final on January 26, had worked with the German for just over a year.&nbsp;

No reason was given for the surprise decision to part ways, but Japanese media cited Osaka's management company IMG in reporting that there had been a breakdown in the player's relationship with the coach since the start of the year.

According to Japan's Nikkan Sports, some practice sessions with Bajin at the Australian Open lasted just 10 minutes and she sometimes hit without him being present.&nbsp;

Osaka, who is scheduled to compete in Dubai next week, began sounding out potential replacements late last year, local media reported.

The Japanese player captured her first Grand Slam crown by stunning Williams at last year's US Open in a final remembered as much for the American's astonishing rant at the chair umpire following a coaching violation.

Based in the United States, Osaka linked up with Bajin in late 2017 and enjoyed a breakthrough year, shooting from 72 in the world to the top of the women's rankings.

Disbelief

During that period she won the prestigious Indian Wells tournament before scooping her first major in New York, while Bajin was named WTA coach of the year.

Osaka's Twitter feed lit up in response to her announcement, with several memes expressing widespread disbelief -- including a shrugging Barack Obama, a confused Joey from American sitcom "Friends" and a Minions character screaming "WHAAAAT?"

Osaka, who grew up in the US and speaks little Japanese, melted hearts when she fought back tears after her emotional US Open win over her idol Williams as booing echoed around the stadium.

She won more fans with a nail-biting 7-6, 5-7, 6-4 win over Kvitova in the Australian Open final, after which Osaka sobbed tears of joy as the jeers were replaced by cheers.

Former greats Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have all heaped praise on the new darling of women's tennis.

"Winning back-to-back Grand Slam tournaments is a rare and special achievement, and I'm thrilled these results have propelled Naomi to the top of the women's game,"&nbsp;said Evert, the first ever WTA world number one.

"Her exciting brand of tennis, coupled with the dignity she displays on and off court, is a winning combination that tennis fans really embrace."

World tennis number one Naomi Osaka has split from her coach Sascha Bajin just 17 days after completing back-to-back Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open.

World tennis number one Naomi Osaka has split from her coach Sascha Bajin just 17 days after completing back-to-back Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open. "Hey everyone, I will no longer be working together with Sascha. I thank him for his work and wish him all the best in the future," the 21-year-old Japanese tweeted in a shock announcement. Bajin, a former hitting partner to Serena Williams, responded: "Thank you Naomi. I wish you nothing but the best as well. What a ride that was. Thank you for letting me be part of this." Osaka, who became the first Asian to hold the top ranking after beating Czech Petra Kvitova in the Melbourne final on January 26, had worked with the German for just over a year. No reason was given for the surprise decision to part ways, but Japanese media cited Osaka's management company IMG in reporting that there had been a breakdown in the player's relationship with the coach since the start of the year. According to Japan's Nikkan Sports, some practice sessions with Bajin at the Australian Open lasted just 10 minutes and she sometimes hit without him being present. Osaka, who is scheduled to compete in Dubai next week, began sounding out potential replacements late last year, local media reported. The Japanese player captured her first Grand Slam crown by stunning Williams at last year's US Open in a final remembered as much for the American's astonishing rant at the chair umpire following a coaching violation. Based in the United States, Osaka linked up with Bajin in late 2017 and enjoyed a breakthrough year, shooting from 72 in the world to the top of the women's rankings. Disbelief During that period she won the prestigious Indian Wells tournament before scooping her first major in New York, while Bajin was named WTA coach of the year. Osaka's Twitter feed lit up in response to her announcement, with several memes expressing widespread disbelief -- including a shrugging Barack Obama, a confused Joey from American sitcom "Friends" and a Minions character screaming "WHAAAAT?" Osaka, who grew up in the US and speaks little Japanese, melted hearts when she fought back tears after her emotional US Open win over her idol Williams as booing echoed around the stadium. She won more fans with a nail-biting 7-6, 5-7, 6-4 win over Kvitova in the Australian Open final, after which Osaka sobbed tears of joy as the jeers were replaced by cheers. Former greats Billie Jean King, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert have all heaped praise on the new darling of women's tennis. "Winning back-to-back Grand Slam tournaments is a rare and special achievement, and I'm thrilled these results have propelled Naomi to the top of the women's game," said Evert, the first ever WTA world number one. "Her exciting brand of tennis, coupled with the dignity she displays on and off court, is a winning combination that tennis fans really embrace."

World number one Naomi Osaka in shock split with coach

In pictures & quotes: A look back at the Australian Open

It was an agonising two hours and 27 minutes but Japanese tennis fans burst into tears and shouts of joy Saturday as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-beats-petra-kvitova-to-win-australian-open-192967">Naomi Osaka sealed her second straight Grand Slam</a>.&nbsp;

Supporters in a packed Tokyo bar had a rollercoaster ride watching the action from the Australian Open final as their heroine Osaka contrived to give up three Championship points in the second set.

But as Osaka claimed victory and sunk to her knees in triumph and disbelief, fans let out the pent-up emotion following a thrilling see-saw <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/petra-kvitova-feels-a-winner-despite-australian-open-pain-193041">battle with eighth seed Petra Kvitova</a> from the Czech Republic.

They punched the air, clapped hands and gave each other hugs and high fives as shouts of joy rang around the B ONE bar in upmarket Ginza, replacing earlier chants of "Naomi! Naomi! Naomi!"&nbsp;

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe led his nation's congratulations, hailing an "impressive victory in a very tight game".

"I'm so proud of the birth of the new world queen," tweeted Abe.

In securing victory in Melbourne after her stunning win over Serena Williams in the US Open last year, Osaka also clinched the world number-one spot, the first Asian to do so.

Her US Open victory was the first by a Japanese player and she is now the youngest woman to win back-to-back majors since Martina Hingis in 1998 and the youngest number one since Caroline Wozniacki in 2010.

With her gutsy performance in Melbourne backing up her breakthrough in New York, Osaka confirmed herself as the new star in the women's game and fans were expecting her to kick on from here.

"She can win much, much more! I want her to win on grass... I want her to win at Wimbledon!" Masako Takeda said at the bar as she wiped away tears of joy.

Another fan, Aki Tani, praised Osaka for being "humble but playing boldly" on court.

"I'm so happy that we can tell she has grown so much over the past two years!" she said.

Nozomi Hirabayashi noted it was "unthinkable before" that a Japanese player could become the world's best.

"I'm so proud," he said. "I want her to win the next Grand Slam as she is very mentally strong." News flashes screamed across Japanese networks after the nail-biting match.

The Sankei newspaper tweeted: "She scored a remarkable win that makes us see 'the Era of Naomi' coming up." Osaka has a Japanese mother, a Haitian father and was raised in the United States.

She has dual Japanese-American citizenship and often replies to questions from Japan's media in English, apologising for not knowing the appropriate word when she speaks Japanese.

It was an agonising two hours and 27 minutes but Japanese tennis fans burst into tears and shouts of joy Saturday as Naomi Osaka sealed her second straight Grand Slam.

It was an agonising two hours and 27 minutes but Japanese tennis fans burst into tears and shouts of joy Saturday as Naomi Osaka sealed her second straight Grand Slam. Supporters in a packed Tokyo bar had a rollercoaster ride watching the action from the Australian Open final as their heroine Osaka contrived to give up three Championship points in the second set. But as Osaka claimed victory and sunk to her knees in triumph and disbelief, fans let out the pent-up emotion following a thrilling see-saw battle with eighth seed Petra Kvitova from the Czech Republic. They punched the air, clapped hands and gave each other hugs and high fives as shouts of joy rang around the B ONE bar in upmarket Ginza, replacing earlier chants of "Naomi! Naomi! Naomi!" Prime Minister Shinzo Abe led his nation's congratulations, hailing an "impressive victory in a very tight game". "I'm so proud of the birth of the new world queen," tweeted Abe. In securing victory in Melbourne after her stunning win over Serena Williams in the US Open last year, Osaka also clinched the world number-one spot, the first Asian to do so. Her US Open victory was the first by a Japanese player and she is now the youngest woman to win back-to-back majors since Martina Hingis in 1998 and the youngest number one since Caroline Wozniacki in 2010. With her gutsy performance in Melbourne backing up her breakthrough in New York, Osaka confirmed herself as the new star in the women's game and fans were expecting her to kick on from here. "She can win much, much more! I want her to win on grass... I want her to win at Wimbledon!" Masako Takeda said at the bar as she wiped away tears of joy. Another fan, Aki Tani, praised Osaka for being "humble but playing boldly" on court. "I'm so happy that we can tell she has grown so much over the past two years!" she said. Nozomi Hirabayashi noted it was "unthinkable before" that a Japanese player could become the world's best. "I'm so proud," he said. "I want her to win the next Grand Slam as she is very mentally strong." News flashes screamed across Japanese networks after the nail-biting match. The Sankei newspaper tweeted: "She scored a remarkable win that makes us see 'the Era of Naomi' coming up." Osaka has a Japanese mother, a Haitian father and was raised in the United States. She has dual Japanese-American citizenship and often replies to questions from Japan's media in English, apologising for not knowing the appropriate word when she speaks Japanese.

Australian Open: Japan tennis fans hail 'new Queen' Naomi Osaka

Comeback queen Petra Kvitova said she was hurting but still <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-beats-petra-kvitova-to-win-australian-open-192967">felt like a winner after going down</a> guns blazing against Japan's Naomi Osaka Saturday in an epic clash for the Australian Open crown.&nbsp;

The Czech two-time Wimbledon champion overcame incredible odds to even play tennis again after a knife attack damaged her racquet hand in late 2016.&nbsp;

Doctors had given her only a 10 per cent chance of returning to the sport and Kvitova said reaching the final of the season-opening Grand Slam was an achievement in itself.&nbsp;

"It's hurting a lot today, I wanted to win and have the trophy," the 28-year-old said after the 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-4 defeat.&nbsp;

"But I think I already won two years ago. So for me, it's crazy. I can hardly believe that I just played in a Grand Slam final again.&nbsp;

"I've been through many, many things, not really great ones."&nbsp;

The Czech said she had her chances against Osaka and the 2hr 27min final hinged on a few key moments.&nbsp;

She was unable to convert five break points in the first set but forced a tie-break, only for Osaka to run away with it.&nbsp;

Kvitova then summoned her renowned fighting spirit to survive three championship points as she trailed 3-5 in the second, forcing a decider.

"I was thinking that if I turn it around, probably (momentum) it's on my side. In the end, it wasn't," she said after Osaka rallied to take a decisive break in the third set.

"I don't think I played really badly, but I just maybe could have gone a little bit more aggressive one or two rallies."&nbsp;

Regardless of the result, what Kvitova calls her "second career" post-attack is back on track.

She put together an 11-match winning streak on the way to the final, including a title in Brisbane, and did not drop a set on her way to the decider at Melbourne Park.

Her run to the final will lift her to number two in the world rankings, behind only Osaka, equalling the career high position she reached after winning her first Wimbledon title in 2011.

Such a comeback appeared unthinkable after the December 2016 attack.

Australian media this week published gruesome photographs of her injured hand, with the flesh sliced open and the tip of the index finger almost cut off.

She said she did not know if she would ever hold a racquet again.

"It's not 100 percent and never will be. It's just how it is," she said.

"I'm just trying to take maximum from the minimum. I feel great. I'm playing great tennis. I don't think that I could really imagine at the time being this kind of player again."

Comeback queen Petra Kvitova said she was hurting but still felt like a winner after going down guns blazing against Japan's Naomi Osaka Saturday in an epic clash for the Australian Open crown.

Comeback queen Petra Kvitova said she was hurting but still felt like a winner after going down guns blazing against Japan's Naomi Osaka Saturday in an epic clash for the Australian Open crown. The Czech two-time Wimbledon champion overcame incredible odds to even play tennis again after a knife attack damaged her racquet hand in late 2016. Doctors had given her only a 10 per cent chance of returning to the sport and Kvitova said reaching the final of the season-opening Grand Slam was an achievement in itself. "It's hurting a lot today, I wanted to win and have the trophy," the 28-year-old said after the 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-4 defeat. "But I think I already won two years ago. So for me, it's crazy. I can hardly believe that I just played in a Grand Slam final again. "I've been through many, many things, not really great ones." The Czech said she had her chances against Osaka and the 2hr 27min final hinged on a few key moments. She was unable to convert five break points in the first set but forced a tie-break, only for Osaka to run away with it. Kvitova then summoned her renowned fighting spirit to survive three championship points as she trailed 3-5 in the second, forcing a decider. "I was thinking that if I turn it around, probably (momentum) it's on my side. In the end, it wasn't," she said after Osaka rallied to take a decisive break in the third set. "I don't think I played really badly, but I just maybe could have gone a little bit more aggressive one or two rallies." Regardless of the result, what Kvitova calls her "second career" post-attack is back on track. She put together an 11-match winning streak on the way to the final, including a title in Brisbane, and did not drop a set on her way to the decider at Melbourne Park. Her run to the final will lift her to number two in the world rankings, behind only Osaka, equalling the career high position she reached after winning her first Wimbledon title in 2011. Such a comeback appeared unthinkable after the December 2016 attack. Australian media this week published gruesome photographs of her injured hand, with the flesh sliced open and the tip of the index finger almost cut off. She said she did not know if she would ever hold a racquet again. "It's not 100 percent and never will be. It's just how it is," she said. "I'm just trying to take maximum from the minimum. I feel great. I'm playing great tennis. I don't think that I could really imagine at the time being this kind of player again."

Petra Kvitova feels a winner, despite Australian Open pain

Japan's Naomi Osaka battled past Czech eighth seed Petra Kvitova 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-4 to win her first Australian Open crown Saturday and become the new world number one.&nbsp;

She&nbsp;became the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Also, the win made Osaka the first player from an Asian country to claim the world number one ranking.&nbsp;

"I felt like I was in a state of shock through the entire trophy presentation," the 21-year-old said.

A rattled Osaka almost blew her title hopes with one hand on the trophy when she failed to convert three championship points leading 5-3 in the second set.&nbsp;

The never-say-die Kvitova forced a deciding set before Osaka finally edged ahead with a decisive break early in the third.

"Of course I felt&nbsp;very disappointed and sad when I had three match points," she said.&nbsp;

"I tried to tell myself there's nothing I can do about it. Told myself I'm playing a final and need to keep fighting and couldn’t act immature and needed to keep fighting."

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The fourth seed and US Open champion made it two Grand Slam titles in a row after a see-sawing 2hr 27min match.&nbsp;

The hard-fought victory made Osaka the first Asian, male or female, to hold the world's top ranking, taking over from Romania's Simona Halep.&nbsp;

Japan's Naomi Osaka battled past Czech eighth seed Petra Kvitova 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-4 to win her first Australian Open crown Saturday and become the new world number one.

Japan's Naomi Osaka battled past Czech eighth seed Petra Kvitova 7-6 (7/2), 5-7, 6-4 to win her first Australian Open crown Saturday and become the new world number one. She became the first Japanese player to win the Australian Open. Also, the win made Osaka the first player from an Asian country to claim the world number one ranking. "I felt like I was in a state of shock through the entire trophy presentation," the 21-year-old said. A rattled Osaka almost blew her title hopes with one hand on the trophy when she failed to convert three championship points leading 5-3 in the second set. The never-say-die Kvitova forced a deciding set before Osaka finally edged ahead with a decisive break early in the third. "Of course I felt very disappointed and sad when I had three match points," she said. "I tried to tell myself there's nothing I can do about it. Told myself I'm playing a final and need to keep fighting and couldn’t act immature and needed to keep fighting." Tears of joy 🙏@Naomi_Osaka_ #AusOpen pic.twitter.com/ckfLkGG6kf — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2019 × What a moment. @Naomi_Osaka_ wins her second Grand Slam in a row 🏆🏆#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/9TTskXIH9E — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 26, 2019 × The fourth seed and US Open champion made it two Grand Slam titles in a row after a see-sawing 2hr 27min match. The hard-fought victory made Osaka the first Asian, male or female, to hold the world's top ranking, taking over from Romania's Simona Halep.

Naomi Osaka beats Petra Kvitova to win Australian Open

The rewards could not get bigger when Petra Kvitova takes on Naomi Osaka in Saturday's Australian Open final with one of them set to emerge as a fresh champion at Melbourne Park as well as the new world number one.&nbsp;

Four months after stunning 23-times Grand Slam champion Serena Williams in the final of the US&nbsp;Open last September, 21-year-old Osaka is one win away from becoming the first player since Jennifer Capriati to win the next Grand Slam after her maiden major title.&nbsp;

The fourth seed, one of the cleanest strikers of the ball in women's tennis, is not expecting it to be a cakewalk, especially being pitted against an opponent as aggressive as Osaka and also more experienced with two Wimbledon titles under her belt.&nbsp;

Osaka fought back from a set and 4-1 down against Taiwan's Hsieh Su-wei in the third round at Melbourne Park and showed her determination in winning two more three-setters to keep a 13-match victory streak in Grand Slams running.&nbsp;

She will need all of that grit if she hopes to stop Kvitova, who is yet to drop a set en route to her maiden Australian Open final, in their first career meeting.&nbsp;

In Pics: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/naomi-osaka-vs-petra-kvitova-besides-australian-open-title-the-winner-will-be-the-new-world-no1-192555">Kvitova vs Osaka: Besides winning Aus Open title, </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/naomi-osaka-vs-petra-kvitova-besides-australian-open-title-the-winner-will-be-the-new-world-no1-192555">winner</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/naomi-osaka-vs-petra-kvitova-besides-australian-open-title-the-winner-will-be-the-new-world-no1-192555"> will be the new world No.1</a>

"I think to have the opportunity to play her for the first time in a final of a Grand Slam is something very amazing," Osaka told reporters after her semi-final win. "I've watched her play the Wimbledon finals.&nbsp;

"I know what a great player she is. It's definitely going to be very tough for me."&nbsp;

Kvitova is one match away from capping one of the most inspiring comebacks in the history of the sport, having had to undergo a nearly four-hour surgery on her playing hand in 2016 after being attacked by a knife-wielding intruder at her home in the Czech Republic.&nbsp;

She missed the 2017 tournament at Melbourne Park while recovering from the surgery and it was just not a case of overcoming a physical injury as the attack left an indelible mental scar too.

"I have been in the final of the Grand Slam, but this is a little bit different," she told reporters on Friday.&nbsp;

"I'm not playing on the grass, but I think it's just probably a little bit more special because it's after everything I have been through. So I think it's just different, but I don't think it's, like, more nervous."&nbsp;

The 28-year-old, currently sixth in the rankings, won the Sydney International warm-up before arriving in Melbourne and has not looked back, having strolled past her opponents in an 11-match winning streak.&nbsp;

Saturday could, however, be a different fight against the big-hitting Osaka, who hammered 56 winners and clubbed 15 aces to defeat another Czech player in Karolina Pliskova.&nbsp;

"I need to play my best tennis, what I can say. I think Naomi is on fire. She's in very good form," Kvitova said.&nbsp;

"She's an aggressive player, which I am, as well. So I think it will be about who gonna take the first point and push the other a little bit."&nbsp;

With both players evenly matched in their aggressive play and ability to serve big, Kvitova's coach Jiri Vanek believed the player with the bigger heart will win Saturday's contest.&nbsp;

Vanek's opposite number Sascha Bajin believes Osaka's fitness and mindset will give her the edge in rallies.&nbsp;

The number one ranking will be the cherry on the top for the winner as she will unseat Romanian Simona Halep, who was ousted by Serena Williams in the fourth round, at the top spot of the women's game on Monday.&nbsp;

It will be a first-ever week as world number one for either players as Osaka is at her career-best ranking at fourth, while Kvitova climbed as high as second during 2011.&nbsp;

The rewards could not get bigger when Petra Kvitova takes on Naomi Osaka in Saturday's Australian Open final with one of them set to emerge as a fresh champion at Melbourne Park as well as the new world number one.

The rewards could not get bigger when Petra Kvitova takes on Naomi Osaka in Saturday's Australian Open final with one of them set to emerge as a fresh champion at Melbourne Park as well as the new world number one. Four months after stunning 23-times Grand Slam champion Serena Williams in the final of the US Open last September, 21-year-old Osaka is one win away from becoming the first player since Jennifer Capriati to win the next Grand Slam after her maiden major title. The fourth seed, one of the cleanest strikers of the ball in women's tennis, is not expecting it to be a cakewalk, especially being pitted against an opponent as aggressive as Osaka and also more experienced with two Wimbledon titles under her belt. Osaka fought back from a set and 4-1 down against Taiwan's Hsieh Su-wei in the third round at Melbourne Park and showed her determination in winning two more three-setters to keep a 13-match victory streak in Grand Slams running. She will need all of that grit if she hopes to stop Kvitova, who is yet to drop a set en route to her maiden Australian Open final, in their first career meeting. In Pics: Kvitova vs Osaka: Besides winning Aus Open title, winner will be the new world No.1 "I think to have the opportunity to play her for the first time in a final of a Grand Slam is something very amazing," Osaka told reporters after her semi-final win. "I've watched her play the Wimbledon finals. "I know what a great player she is. It's definitely going to be very tough for me." Kvitova is one match away from capping one of the most inspiring comebacks in the history of the sport, having had to undergo a nearly four-hour surgery on her playing hand in 2016 after being attacked by a knife-wielding intruder at her home in the Czech Republic. She missed the 2017 tournament at Melbourne Park while recovering from the surgery and it was just not a case of overcoming a physical injury as the attack left an indelible mental scar too. "I have been in the final of the Grand Slam, but this is a little bit different," she told reporters on Friday. "I'm not playing on the grass, but I think it's just probably a little bit more special because it's after everything I have been through. So I think it's just different, but I don't think it's, like, more nervous." The 28-year-old, currently sixth in the rankings, won the Sydney International warm-up before arriving in Melbourne and has not looked back, having strolled past her opponents in an 11-match winning streak. Saturday could, however, be a different fight against the big-hitting Osaka, who hammered 56 winners and clubbed 15 aces to defeat another Czech player in Karolina Pliskova. "I need to play my best tennis, what I can say. I think Naomi is on fire. She's in very good form," Kvitova said. "She's an aggressive player, which I am, as well. So I think it will be about who gonna take the first point and push the other a little bit." With both players evenly matched in their aggressive play and ability to serve big, Kvitova's coach Jiri Vanek believed the player with the bigger heart will win Saturday's contest. Vanek's opposite number Sascha Bajin believes Osaka's fitness and mindset will give her the edge in rallies. The number one ranking will be the cherry on the top for the winner as she will unseat Romanian Simona Halep, who was ousted by Serena Williams in the fourth round, at the top spot of the women's game on Monday. It will be a first-ever week as world number one for either players as Osaka is at her career-best ranking at fourth, while Kvitova climbed as high as second during 2011.

Naomi Osaka, Petra Kvitova chase double delight in Australian Open final

Japanese noodle firm Nissin announced Thursday it was scrapping an "anime" advert featuring tennis star Naomi Osaka, after portraying the half-Haitian player with pale skin, sparking accusations of "whitewashing."

The cup noodle firm, which sponsors the US Open women's champion, found itself in hot water with its cartoon advert also featuring fellow tennis star Kei Nishikori, as the pale-skinned character bore scant resemblance to the 21-year-old Osaka.

The anime adverts "have already been dropped", Daisuke Okabayashi, a spokesman for Nissin Foods, told AFP.

"We never had the intention to do what is known as 'whitewashing', but with this becoming an issue, we will pay more attention to respect for diversity in our PR activities," added Okabayashi.

He added that they did not consider either blackening or whitening the skin colour of the characters. "We were trying to create them to match the world of Japanese animation," stressed Okabayashi.

The firm had intially obtained agreement from Osaka via her representatives, added the spokesman.

Osaka, who has a Japanese mother, a Haitian father and was raised in the United States, has not commented publicly on the issue as she bids for a second consecutive Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.

The advert sparked debate on social media, with one user writing: "Didn't anyone question why her skin colour was so pale? Her identity is completely ignored."

Another Japanese twitter user complained: "This isn't Naomi Osaka. Isn't this clearly whitewashing?"

However, others noted Nishikori was also portrayed with lighter skin, which tends to be the norm in "anime" cartoons.

The real Nishikori "isn't that light, eyes aren't that round, and nose is wider. They are both drawn in anime style," said one defender of the advert.

Osaka has dual Japanese-American citizenship and often replies to questions from Japan's media in English, apologising for not knowing the appropriate word when she speaks Japanese.

Japan remains a fairly homogeneous country, and mixed race children can often face prejudice, although attitudes among younger generations are changing.

Osaka became the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam last year after beating Serena Williams at the US Open.

That match also sparked a cartoon/race controversy when a caricature of Williams, who is black, appeared showing a butch and fat-lipped player jumping up and down on a broken racquet.

The match was marked by heated exchanges between Williams and the umpire.

Osaka and Williams were on a semi-final collision course at the Australian Open but the American coughed up a match point to lose to Karolina Pliskova.

Japanese noodle firm Nissin announced Thursday it was scrapping an "anime" advert featuring tennis star Naomi Osaka, after portraying the half-Haitian player with pale skin, sparking accusations of "whitewashing.

Japanese noodle firm Nissin announced Thursday it was scrapping an "anime" advert featuring tennis star Naomi Osaka, after portraying the half-Haitian player with pale skin, sparking accusations of "whitewashing." The cup noodle firm, which sponsors the US Open women's champion, found itself in hot water with its cartoon advert also featuring fellow tennis star Kei Nishikori, as the pale-skinned character bore scant resemblance to the 21-year-old Osaka. The anime adverts "have already been dropped", Daisuke Okabayashi, a spokesman for Nissin Foods, told AFP. "We never had the intention to do what is known as 'whitewashing', but with this becoming an issue, we will pay more attention to respect for diversity in our PR activities," added Okabayashi. He added that they did not consider either blackening or whitening the skin colour of the characters. "We were trying to create them to match the world of Japanese animation," stressed Okabayashi. The firm had intially obtained agreement from Osaka via her representatives, added the spokesman. Osaka, who has a Japanese mother, a Haitian father and was raised in the United States, has not commented publicly on the issue as she bids for a second consecutive Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. The advert sparked debate on social media, with one user writing: "Didn't anyone question why her skin colour was so pale? Her identity is completely ignored." Another Japanese twitter user complained: "This isn't Naomi Osaka. Isn't this clearly whitewashing?" However, others noted Nishikori was also portrayed with lighter skin, which tends to be the norm in "anime" cartoons. The real Nishikori "isn't that light, eyes aren't that round, and nose is wider. They are both drawn in anime style," said one defender of the advert. Osaka has dual Japanese-American citizenship and often replies to questions from Japan's media in English, apologising for not knowing the appropriate word when she speaks Japanese. Japan remains a fairly homogeneous country, and mixed race children can often face prejudice, although attitudes among younger generations are changing. Osaka became the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam last year after beating Serena Williams at the US Open. That match also sparked a cartoon/race controversy when a caricature of Williams, who is black, appeared showing a butch and fat-lipped player jumping up and down on a broken racquet. The match was marked by heated exchanges between Williams and the umpire. Osaka and Williams were on a semi-final collision course at the Australian Open but the American coughed up a match point to lose to Karolina Pliskova.

Japan firm pulls Naomi Osaka ad amid 'whitewash' spat

Kvitova vs Osaka: Besides winning Aus Open title, winner will be the new world No.1

Japan's Naomi Osaka defeated seventh seed Karolina Pliskova to enter her maiden Australian Open final&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday to set up final with&nbsp;Petra Kvitova.&nbsp;

The 21-year-old Osaka won 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 to reach a second straight Grand Slam decider after her breakthrough triumph at last year's US Open.&nbsp;

Fourth seed Osaka hit winners almost at will from both her forehand and backhand and broke Pliskova's service games twice while facing not a single breakpoint to canter through the first set.&nbsp;

Czech eighth seed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/petra-kvitova-defeats-danielle-collins-to-reach-australian-open-final-192410">Kvitova defeated unseeded American Danielle Collins</a> 7-6(2), 6-0 to enter her first Grand Slam final in five years.

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Two Grand Slam finals in a row. Only 21-years-old.<a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a> is a star 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/AHs37jIfkM">pic.twitter.com/AHs37jIfkM</a>
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Our 2019 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> Women's Singles finalist <a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a>'s message to her Japanese fans 🎌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/eSjkAd1HFU">pic.twitter.com/eSjkAd1HFU</a>
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😴🚶‍♀️<a href="https://twitter.com/Naomi_Osaka_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Naomi_Osaka_</a>'s itinerary as she prepares for her first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> final against Petra Kvitova 😂 <a href="https://t.co/b6hJOzBvZD">pic.twitter.com/b6hJOzBvZD</a>
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Pliskova, who had stunned Serena Williams in the quarter-finals, failed to live up to her reputation as a big server but showed lot of pluck to level the match with a second break at 5-4 after the players had an early trade of breaks.&nbsp;

Osaka converted her only breakpoint opportunity in the decider while her opponent wasted four and the 21-year-old made it to her second straight Grand Slam final with her 15th ace to seal the match in an hour and 53 minutes.&nbsp;

Japan's Naomi Osaka defeated seventh seed Karolina Pliskova to enter her maiden Australian Open final on Thursday to set up final with Petra Kvitova. The 21-year-old Osaka won 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 to reach a second straight Grand Slam decider after her breakthrough triumph at last year's US Open.

Japan's Naomi Osaka defeated seventh seed Karolina Pliskova to enter her maiden Australian Open final on Thursday to set up final with Petra Kvitova. The 21-year-old Osaka won 6-2, 4-6, 6-4 to reach a second straight Grand Slam decider after her breakthrough triumph at last year's US Open. Fourth seed Osaka hit winners almost at will from both her forehand and backhand and broke Pliskova's service games twice while facing not a single breakpoint to canter through the first set. Czech eighth seed Kvitova defeated unseeded American Danielle Collins 7-6(2), 6-0 to enter her first Grand Slam final in five years. Two Grand Slam finals in a row. Only 21-years-old.@Naomi_Osaka_ is a star 🌟#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/AHs37jIfkM — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2019 × Our 2019 #AusOpen Women's Singles finalist @Naomi_Osaka_'s message to her Japanese fans 🎌#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/eSjkAd1HFU — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2019 × 😴🚶‍♀️@Naomi_Osaka_'s itinerary as she prepares for her first #AusOpen final against Petra Kvitova 😂 pic.twitter.com/b6hJOzBvZD — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 24, 2019 × Pliskova, who had stunned Serena Williams in the quarter-finals, failed to live up to her reputation as a big server but showed lot of pluck to level the match with a second break at 5-4 after the players had an early trade of breaks. Osaka converted her only breakpoint opportunity in the decider while her opponent wasted four and the 21-year-old made it to her second straight Grand Slam final with her 15th ace to seal the match in an hour and 53 minutes.

Australian Open: Naomi Osaka beats Pliskova, will play final against Czech Republic's Petra Kvitova

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova.&nbsp;Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"She improved her game in the second set. I was struggling a little bit against the wind. She was playing very well in the second set. I was almost in the locker room but now stand here as the winner. My mind was in the locker room at 5-1 down but I was still here. I was too passive and mentally down. She got a little bit shaky in the end. I took my chances and I won," Pliskova said after her win.

"I'm happy to play two days in a row. I like it. Naomi Osaka [her semi-final opponent] is dangerous but there is nobody more dangerous than Serena, she concluded.

By virtue of this win, Pliskova advanced to meet Japan's Naomi Osaka for a place in the final.

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova. Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals.

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova. Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals. "She improved her game in the second set. I was struggling a little bit against the wind. She was playing very well in the second set. I was almost in the locker room but now stand here as the winner. My mind was in the locker room at 5-1 down but I was still here. I was too passive and mentally down. She got a little bit shaky in the end. I took my chances and I won," Pliskova said after her win. "I'm happy to play two days in a row. I like it. Naomi Osaka [her semi-final opponent] is dangerous but there is nobody more dangerous than Serena, she concluded. By virtue of this win, Pliskova advanced to meet Japan's Naomi Osaka for a place in the final.

Australian Open: Serena Williams knocked out after she loses quarter-final to Karolina Pliskova

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