A despondent Serena Williams has cut short the post-match press conference after being overcome with emotion following her Australian Open semi-final loss to Naomi Osaka.
Chasing a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title, Williams had looked in fine form prior to running into a red-hot Osaka, going down 6-3 6-4 to bow out of the tournament.
The 39-year-old American hit 24 unforced errors and converted just two of seven break point opportunities compared to Osaka's four from four.
"The difference today was errors," Williams said.
"I made so many errors today, so, honestly, it was opportunities where I could have won. I could have been up 5-Love. I just made so many errors."
Following the loss, Williams appeared to gesture to the fans in Rod Laver Arena, putting her hand to her heart and pausing for a moment.
The actions post-match and an emotional press conference prompted suggestions it would be Williams' last time competing in Australia.
When asked about it, Williams said she didn't even know what her plans were.
"I dunno. The Aussie crowd is so amazing. It was nice to see," she told reporters.
"If I ever say farewell, I wouldn't tell anyone."
Williams was then asked about her performance, specifically if she knew what the cause of her increased unforced errors might have been.
"I don't know. I'm done," she said, before tearfully leaving the press conference.
If indeed it is Williams' last appearance at the first major of the year, she will go down as one of the all-time great performers at Melbourne Park.
Williams has taken out the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup an incredible seven times, second in total, but well clear of the challengers in the Open Era.
She most recently claimed the championship while pregnant with her daughter Olympia in 2017, also her most recent Grand Slam triumph.
As for her opponent Osaka, the 2019 champion will meet first time major finalist Jennifer Brady after the American defeated Karolina Muchova 6-4 3-6 6-4 in a thriller of a semi final.
