Naomi Osaka reveals ‘deep sense of sadness’ around Tokyo Olympics
Naomi Osaka has expressed regret at how she failed to truly appreciate the joy of competing at her home Olympics in Tokyo last summer.
The four-time Slam champion struggled with her mental health and personal expectations for much of last season, and the Tokyo Olympics were no different in that regard.
While putting plenty of pressure on herself to perform for her nation of Japan, Naomi Osaka missed the boat on the immense joy such a privilege can bring.
“So the other day I was reflecting on the Olympics,” she shared on Instagram.
“I realised that I had regrets about the whole experience, not the torch lighting though that was fire, literally.
“There was a deep sense of sadness for not having more fun for the time I was there.”
Osaka lit the Olympic torch to open the Games, and after wins over Saisai Zheng and Viktorija Golubic in the Olympic singles she fell to eventual silver medallist Marketa Vondrousova.
While that loss meant the 24-year-old missed a shot at a home Olympic medal, Osaka more regrets not finding the positives in simply competing.
“Can’t believe I was at the Olympics in Tokyo and I failed to consistently find the immense joy in that,” she continued in her social media post.
“I think that’s gonna be really important in my life going forward, just enjoying the experiences and making the most out of the time no matter how short or long it is.
“Anyways hope you guys are doing well and staying safe, I’m sure I’ll see you around.”
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