Top
Osaka Australian Open 2020
Tennis News, WTA Tennis Players

‘I should be used to the pressure,’ admits tearful Naomi Osaka after Olympics loss


Naomi Osaka left the mixed zone in tears after losing to Czech star Marketa Vondrousova in straight sets at the Tokyo Olympics. 

The Japanese star has been the poster girl for the Tokyo Games and was favourite to take the gold medal before slumping to a shock 6-1 6-4 defeat to the world No. 42.

Osaka demonstrated no sign of rustiness in her opening two encounters, but the tennis she displayed in those victories diminished in her third-round tie against the Czech.

Following the contest, the world number two held back the tears as she was questioned on the pressure and expectation to perform at her home Olympics.

“I feel like I should be used to it by now,” said the 23-year-old. “But, at the same time, the scale of everything has been a bit hard because of the break that I took. I am glad I didn’t lose in the first round at least.

“I am really glad to be here. I am sad I lost, of course, but all in all, I am really happy with my first Olympic experience.”

Prior to the Olympics, Osaka had taken an extended eight week break for mental health reasons, though looks set to compete at the upcoming US Open as she bids to defend her title.

By
0

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.