Serena Williams breaks down during press conference

• Serena Williams’s wait for a record-equalling 24th grand slam will be stretched after the American veteran lost her Australian Open semi-final in straight sets to Naomi Osaka.

• The third-seeded Japanese is now the overwhelming favourite to collect her fourth major title, and second at Melbourne Park, on Saturday night against Jennifer Brady, who outlasted Karolina Muchová in the second semi.

• She gave the crowd inside Rod Laver Arena a long wave goodbye with her hand over her heart, leading to questions over the 39-year-old's future.

• She responded: "I don't know. If I ever say farewell, I wouldn't tell anyone."

• Defeat clearly stung the 39-year-old, who left her brief post-match press conference overwhelmed.

Asked to explain how she’d had such a bad day at the office, she replied, “I don’t know.” Then, choking back tears, added, “I’m done,” and exited stage right.