"Pending Decision"

Naomi Osaka belts a backhand in her win over Serena Williams.  Credit Getty Images

Serena Williams acknowledges the crowd as she leaves the court after her loss to Naomi Osaka.

For one to raise another must fall such a saying has surrounded the future of Williams, 39, who has not won a grand slam since the 2017 Australian Open, during the early stages of her pregnancy.

She became emotional when she was asked if this would be her last time playing in Australia.

“I don’t know ... if I ever say farewell I wouldn’t tell anyone,” Williams said. The 39-year-old then couldn’t bring herself to answer the next question.

“I don’t know ... I’m done,” she said as she got up and walked out.