Naomi Osaka Apologizes For Cold Exchange With Sorana Cirstea After Match

The two-time former Melbourne Park champion, 28, defeated Cirstea 6-3 4-6 6-2 in what was the world No41’s final Australian Open before retirement. The pair exchanged a very brisk handshake at the net immediately after the match, with Cirstea swiftly walking away. Puzzled, Osaka appeared to ask: “What was that for?” The pair then had a tense exchange, which led to Osaka laughing in exasperation before turning to wave at the crowd. In her on-court interview, Osaka claimed that Cirstea had been unhappy with her speaking between first and second serves. The four-time Grand Slam champion said: “Apparently a lot of ‘come-ons’ as that’s what she was angry about but whatever.” Osaka added: “I mean, I tried to play well. I think I made a lot of unforced errors but I tried my best. She’s a great player. I think this was her last Australian Open, so, sorry she’s mad about it.” She then claimed that if her opponent had an issue, she “could have asked me”. Cirstea did complain to the umpire during the second set.

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