MELBOURNE, Feb 21 — Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka told Jennifer Brady she was “so sorry” today after making an embarrassing gaffe with the American player’s name.

After beating Brady 6-4, 6-3 yesterday to win her second Melbourne Park title, the ever-polite Osaka started her victory speech by asking if she preferred being called Jennifer or Jenny.

“Jenny,” replied Brady.

Osaka then told the crowd: “Firstly, I want to congratulate Jennifer,” which brought laughter from the 7,000-plus spectators on Rod Laver Arena.

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Osaka apologised later on Twitter and said she was mortified at her blunder.

“Omg no (crying emoji),” the Japanese player wrote. “I promise you my mind thought I called her Jenny in that moment and I was so confused why the crowd was laughing. I’m so sorry.” — AFP