Williams, on the other hand, is inspired now more than ever, to achieve a record-equaling 24th Grand Slam title.Â
Williams grabbed the last seven games to beat 99th-ranked Nina Stojanovic of Serbia 6-3, 6-0. The 39-year-old American has won the title in Australia seven times.
The reigning US Open champion, Osaka had earlier pulled out of the Australian Open warm-up tournaments, revealing that she was suffering from a “nagging” injury. Along with her, two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka had also pulled out, joining Serena Williams and Simona Halep with injury concerns.
The Australian Open favourite Osaka is seeking a fourth Grand Slam title. The Japanese national has won a total of six titles in her career.