2019 - AUSTRALIAN OPEN - AUSTRALIA

January 24, 2019

Awesome Osaka: Naomi too strong for Pliskova in Aussie Open semi

All the best images as US Open champion Naomi Osaka made it through to back-to-back major finals after beating Karolina Pliskova in three.

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The Australian Open semifinal between Naomi Osaka and Karolina Pliskova was their fourth meeting. (Getty)

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Osaka, who trailed 2-1 in the head-to-head, started the match in superb form, breaking in the third game. (Getty)

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She would not allow that advantage to relent as she took the opening set, 6-2. (Getty)

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Pliskova fought back from an early break in the second set. (Getty)

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The Czech levelled the match to force a decider. (Getty)

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Despite the roof being closed, conditions were still tough for both players. (Getty)

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Pliskova had three break points early in the third set but could not take any of them. (Getty)

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Osaka fashioned a 0-40 advantage in game three, which she took at the first opportunity. (Getty)

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Pliskova missed a break point in the eighth game, costing her the chance to draw level. (Getty)

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Osaka thinks she’s hit an ace on match point. It’s called out, but she challenges… (Getty)

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Technology proves the WTA World No.4 correct and she celebrates her second Grand Slam final in succession. (Getty)

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Osaka stands one win away from a first Australian Open title – and the WTA World No.1 spot. (Getty)

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