Things were going well for Naomi Osaka in Osaka on Wednesday, but then they weren’t.
The four-time Grand Slam champion was just two points away from winning the third set via bagel over Suzan Lamens when she was suddenly left limping with a left leg injury, forcing her to take an immediate medical timeout.
In the deciding set, Osaka was in trouble as Ramens waited to serve, with the score 0-5, 40-30.
She returned to the court to applause and ended up winning 7-6(6) 3-6 6-2 after two games.
“It’s really difficult,” Osaka said. “I’m a bit sorry for my attitude but I’m really happy to win – it’s very special to play here.”
She ended the interview briefly, saying “Can I go, my legs are really hurting,” and immediately left the court.
It remains to be seen whether Osaka, who turns 28 tomorrow, will return for Friday’s quarter-final against Jacqueline Christian.
