Speaking to the media after her second-round win over Belinda Bencic on Wednesday, Anisimova claimed that she was looking forward to the match-up with Osaka. The American, who has never faced the Japanese on the WTA tour, began by highlighting that her personality is “a little bit similar” to that of Osaka.
She also revealed that she liked watching the former World No. 1 play while drawing comparisons to her own aggressive brand of tennis.
During the press conference, Anisimova expressed excitement at the prospect of meeting Osaka and said the atmosphere would be amazing. It goes without saying that the duo will be billed for a big-court match when they meet on Friday.
Anisimova was also asked whether she has exchanged pleasantries with Osaka in the past, to which she replied in the negative.
Defending champion Naomi Osaka is hitting top gear at this year’s Australian Open
Naomi Osaka, a two-time champion in Melbourne, has been in stunning form at this year’s Happy Slam. The Japanese defeated both Camila Osorio and Madison Brengle in comprehensive fashion, booking a blockbuster clash with Anisimova in the third round.
Osaka, who was out for nearly six months last year due to mental health issues, is defending her 2021 Australian Open crown. The four-time Major winner seems to have hit top form at just the right time, as evidenced by her semifinal run at the Melbourne Summer Set earlier this month.
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