Defending Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka has credited Nick Kyrgios for giving her inspiration during the summer of tennis.
Osaka last night set up a third-round clash with Amanda Anisimova in defeating American Madison Brengle 6-0 6-4 at Rod Laver Arena.
The win made it five straight for Osaka since her return from a well-publicised mental health break from the sport last year.
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During her press conference afterwards, Osaka spoke on watching other AO matches and using it as motivation.
“I have just been getting really inspired watching other players play their matches,” Osaka said.
“I’m learning from them and what they would do in certain situations. It’s honestly been really fun this tournament.”
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Asked who in particular she was keeping close tabs on, Osaka said she enjoyed watching Kyrgios’ win over Liam Broady on Tuesday, while making particular mention of the Australian’s ability to get the crowd “so hyped up”.
“I watched Kyrgios’ match and, honestly, now I’m feeling like it’s not an Australian Open if you don’t watch a night match of Kyrgios on John Cain Arena,” Osaka said.
“Like, this guy is literally always on that court.
“I thought his serve was awesome. I don’t think my serve percentage was as good as his, but it was really nice to see him back and having the crowd so hyped up.”
The 24-year-old also made mention of teen Spanish star Carlos Alcaraz.
“I really like watching Alcaraz,” Osaka said.
“He’s really good. His forehand – I wish I could trade my forehand for his forehand.
“It’s really fun to watch other players. I think the energy in grand slams is really different from all the other tournaments.”