Overview
- Osaka beat Sorana Cirstea 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 to reach the Australian Open third round.
- Cristsea confronted Osaka over audible self‑encouragement between first and second serves, with TV mics capturing a terse exchange and no penalty from the umpire.
- In her on‑court interview Osaka acknowledged the complaint and referenced Cirstea’s future, then later expressed regret and apologized for her initial remarks.
- Osaka is set to face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis next in the third round.
- Her first‑round, jellyfish‑inspired walk‑on outfit drew wide attention; for round two she kept the aquatic‑hued dress but dropped the hat, veil and parasol.