Naomi Osaka defeats Aryna Sabalenka to reach Wimbledon quarterfinals

Naomi Osaka overcame world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6 (2) on Centre Court, securing a place in the Wimbledon quarterfinals for the first time. The match, played in 28 °C heat, saw Osaka dominate with a high first-serve percentage and more aces and winners than her opponent. Osaka saved both break points she faced and recorded 87% of her first serves, compared with 69% for Sabalenka.

The victory marked Osaka’s first win over a No. 1 player since 2019 and her inaugural triumph on Centre Court. After the match, Osaka said, “It’s been a long time since I’ve had so much fun on the court, and to do it here really means a lot.”

Sabalenka, who had previously defeated Osaka in three earlier meetings this year, could not counter Osaka’s pace and flat groundstrokes, which were amplified by the warm conditions. The win ends Sabalenka’s run of Grand Slam quarterfinal appearances, following a loss at the French Open last month.

Osaka will face Karolina Muchova, who defeated 2024 champion Barbora Krejčíková in the fourth round. Earlier on Centre Court, Novak Djokovic beat qualifier Roman Safiullin, moving one win ahead of Roger Federer in Wimbledon men’s match victories.