World No1 Aryna Sabalenka admitted that she “f***** it up” after being knocked out of Wimbledon by Naomi Osaka in the last 16 on Centre Court. Sabalenka, who was hunting her maiden grass-court title, lost 6-2 7-6(2) to the 14th seed, who earned her first victory over the Belarusian since the 2018 US Open, which Osaka went on to win.
Osaka's Historic Run
Osaka, the former world No1, had never advanced beyond the third round at the All England Club. She ventured into new territory, both literally and figuratively, as she stepped onto Centre Court in a flowing Kimono-inspired gown that has become synonymous with her at the tournament. The Japanese 28-year-old was making her first appearance on the main show court this year, having moved up one court at a time since her opening match on Court No3. As she arrived to cheers from the British crowd, it felt as though the neutral support was behind the world No14.
Sabalenka's Frustration
Sabalenka cut a frustrated and isolated figure, forced into 27 errors by her inspired opponent, who has not dropped a set in her run to the quarter-finals. Her serve was off, with her first-serve percentage at just 55, and she squandered both break-point opportunities that came her way as Osaka played out of her skin. The world No1 let out an almighty scream early in the first set after netting a forehand, but her cries of desperation fell on deaf ears as the home support continued to cheer for Osaka, who grew in confidence.
Frank Assessment
Immediately after her defeat, Sabalenka went to her post-match press conference, where she was frank in her analysis. “No emotions,” she said with a wry smile. “I just know that I can handle myself much better than last year. I f***ed it up this year. Next year I'll try to do better.”
The Belarusian has suffered defeat in both Grand Slams this year, falling to Elena Rybakina in the Australian Open final and to Diana Shnaider in a quarter-final shock at Roland-Garros. Her last major triumph came at the US Open, where she defeated Amanda Anisimova in the final at Flushing Meadows.
