American tennis star Naomi Osaka lost against Karolina Muchova in the second round of the US Open on August 30, saying in a post-match interview that she feels that her “heart dies” whenever she loses a game. While Osaka lost the game in two sets (6-3 7-6), she seemed to have momentum on numerous occasions and delivered an extraordinary level of tennis skill in a second set where she forced a tie-break.
However, the Czech rising star showed consistency and effectiveness that allowed her to overcome all obstacles. Sports journalists explained that the game was “cruel” for the American star as she had three set points on the second set where she could have forced a third one.
At the post-match press conference, Osaka explained that the defeat represented a painful and uncomfortable situation for her, as she usually takes all losses “really personally.” The tennis star said that even when many people may think that attitude is unhealthy, she believes that’s the cornerstone of her competitive nature, which is the key to success at tennis. She also said she’s aware that feeling that way is like living in a “dramatic world,” as she always feels like her “heart dies” after a defeat.
Osaka added that she has been trying to control those feelings over the last few months and that she has been talking with specialists so she can find a solution as soon as possible.
Osaka, who won the US Open in 2018 and 2020, couldn’t participate in the New York Grand Slam in 2023 as she gave birth to a baby girl named Shai. While many reporters speculated about a possible retirement, Osaka announced she was planning to get back to the court as she wanted to keep winning titles and boosting her legacy. She officially returned in January, achieving great victories and showing she was still one of the greatest in the world. However, Osaka hasn’t been able to pass the second rounds in the Grand Slams, as she lost in the first match of the Australia Open, and the second round of Roland Garros and Wimbledon.
Osaka described her return as a “learning” period in which she had to adapt her body to new technical and physical challenges. The tennis star added that everything has been difficult as she had to start from zero, comparing her experience to legendary tennis player Serena Williams after giving birth. However, Osaka has also said she feels stronger than ever and hopes to up her game in 2025.
Let’s hope so!
