Tennis: Osaka emotional after French Open exit, vows to improve
Naomi Osaka expressed frustration after her first-round loss to Paula Badosa at the French Open, admitting she “hates disappointing people” following a 6-7 (1-7), 6-1, 6-4 defeat. The four-time Grand Slam champion, still rebuilding after her 2023 maternity break, fought hard but was hampered by blisters from clay-court friction.
Osaka, 27, briefly left her press conference to compose herself, reflecting on her struggles since returning to tennis. “I feel like I should be doing better,” she said, referencing her collaboration with Serena Williams’ former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou.
Despite a strong start, Badosa’s resilience turned the match. Osaka, who won her first title in nearly two years earlier this month, hasn’t advanced past the third round in a major since her comeback.
The Japanese star remains determined, saying, “I’ll keep working hard.” Fans will hope for a stronger showing at Wimbledon next.
