Naomi Osaka produced one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships on Sunday, defeating world number one Aryna Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6 (7/2) to reach the quarter-finals at the All England Club for the first time in her career.
The Japanese star delivered a composed and powerful display on Centre Court to avenge her straight-sets defeat to Sabalenka in the French Open round of 16 in June, ending the Belarusian’s campaign in emphatic fashion.
The victory was Osaka’s first over Sabalenka after three previous defeats and secured her maiden appearance in the Wimbledon last eight. She has now advanced through the tournament without dropping a set.
Osaka celebrated by placing her racquet on her head in disbelief after converting her second match point.
“It’s been a long time since I had so much fun on the court. To do it here means a lot,” she said.
The defeat marked Sabalenka’s earliest Grand Slam exit since the 2022 French Open and her first straight-sets loss at a major in 122 matches.
Since returning from maternity leave in July 2023, Osaka has enjoyed a resurgence under coach Tomasz Wiktorowski, who previously worked with Iga Swiatek. The four-time Grand Slam champion reached the semi-finals of the 2025 US Open and has continued her upward trajectory with career-best performances at both the French Open and Wimbledon this year.
Asked about her recent success on grass, Osaka paid tribute to her coaching team.
“The big Polish man! Shout out Tomasz!
“Shout out to the rest of my team, they are the best. I have so much fun with them and I learn so much from them.
“I’m so grateful they are on this journey with me.”
Osaka took control from the opening set, breaking Sabalenka early before opening up a double-break advantage with aggressive baseline play and powerful serving. She finished the match with 21 winners, matching the Belarusian’s power throughout.
Although Sabalenka recovered to force a second-set tie-break, Osaka maintained her composure to close out the match in straight sets.
Reflecting on the defeat, Sabalenka admitted her opponent was the better player.
“I didn’t play my best, and she played probably her best. Sometimes that happens,” she said.
“Sometimes you can go out there and do everything you can and still lose the match.
“Well done for Naomi. Wishing her the best.”
Beyond her performances, Osaka has also drawn attention for her eye-catching pre-match outfits, appearing in custom designs ranging from a kimono-inspired ensemble to a bomber jacket with a flowing train and a cloak resembling an open kimono.
The 28-year-old said embracing fashion has helped ease the pressure surrounding her performances.
“For me, this court is so special. This is the first match I’ve won on this court. It means a lot.
“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.
“I lost to her three times in a row. That really sucked. I wanted to have the opportunity to overturn that,” Osaka added.
Osaka will next face Czech 10th seed Karolina Muchova for a place in the Wimbledon semi-finals after Muchova defeated defending champion Barbora Krejcikova, ensuring the women’s singles event will crown a new champion for the 10th consecutive edition.
