Maddison Inglis is not finished yet. The Australian qualifier is ready to 'lock in' and take on the formidable challenge of facing head-turning tennis titan Naomi Osaka, aiming to continue her magical run at the Australian Open.
A Dream Run for the Home Hope
As one of six local women to reach the second round, marking Australia's best start to an Open since 1992, Inglis now stands alone as the last female home hope remaining at Melbourne Park. Despite the daunting task of confronting a two-time champion on Saturday, the 28-year-old is dreaming big, eyeing a first-ever charge into the second week of a Grand Slam tournament.
'I really want to enjoy these moments. I will enjoy it with my family but the job's not done yet. I'll lock back in on Saturday. I'm really excited for it,' Inglis declared after securing her fifth epic Open victory in just ten days.
Gruelling Path to the Third Round
Inglis, one of only two qualifiers to advance to the last 32, has endured a taxing journey. She has spent a staggering 13 hours and 24 gruelling minutes over 14 sets to reach the third round for the second time in her career. Her workload stands as the most extensive among all remaining players in the women's draw.
'Yeah, it is hard because these matches, they're really taxing. I am feeling a bit tired right now,' admitted the Perth talent. Remarkably, she still found the energy to compete in mixed doubles with her fiancé, Jason Kubler, on Friday, before vowing to 'recover and have a bit of a chill day' ahead of the crucial match.
Show-Court Showdown on Rod Laver Arena
Even before considering Osaka's startling fashion statements, the Japanese superstar's magnetic appeal ensures that her showdown with Inglis will command a prime spot on Rod Laver Arena. The Aussie underdog is eagerly anticipating the occasion.
'I was lucky to play there once a few years ago in the third round. Also the year before that against (Sofia) Kenin,' Inglis recalled. 'I've had some experience out there, which will really help me. It's one of the biggest courts in tennis. It will be pretty crazy to go out there and play, but also so exciting. So that will be awesome.'
She added, 'I know it will be a tough match. But yeah, right now I'm going to soak it all in. You're not in the third round of a grand slam every day.'
Osaka's Challenging Path and Injury Concerns
Osaka faced her own trials in the second round, requiring a medical time-out early in the third set during a spicy encounter with Sorana Cirstea. The retiring Romanian later accused the former world No.1 of unsporting behaviour in the 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory.
Osaka, however, remained tight-lipped about the nature of her apparent shoulder injury. 'It's kind of a recurring thing,' said this year's 16th seed. 'I guess if you look at my medical history, you can maybe do like a little guessing game. For me, I'm just really glad that I pushed through it and also played really good tennis in the third set.'
Financial Rewards and Fashion Statements
Regardless of the outcome, Inglis is guaranteed a significant career payday. Her breakout run ensures a minimum prize of $327,750, with the potential to increase to $480,000 if she pulls off a boilover victory. A win would set up a last-16 clash on Monday against either world No.2 Iga Swiatek or 31st seed Anna Kalinskaya.
However, no amount of money would entice Inglis to compete with Osaka in the fashion stakes. The four-time major winner made headlines by launching her campaign in a couture outfit inspired by a jellyfish, complete with a wide-brimmed hat featuring a gauzy veil and train.
'Definitely not,' Inglis stated firmly. 'I'll just be wearing the same thing (as normal).' Her focus remains squarely on the tennis, as she prepares to lock in for the biggest match of her career against one of the sport's most iconic figures.
