Naomi Osaka will hope to go further than her second-round exit at the 2025 French Open this year, but faces a stern test if she is to do so.
After all, whilst the 28-year-old has been gifted a relatively easy start, from the third round onwards, the difficulty ramps up significantly.
Despite all the pressure that will be building upon her shoulders, Naomi Osaka has looked relaxed and upbeat whilst preparing for the tournament.
This was perfectly exhibited at the recent tribute event for Gael Monfils, where she played with a whole host of tennis superstars in honour of the legendary Frenchman.
She has since spoken glowingly about the man, emphasising the impact he has had on both her and the entire sport.
Naomi Osaka praises Gael Monfils ahead of his final Roland Garros
Speaking at her press conference, the Japanese tennis star had nothing but good words to say about Monfils as he gears up for his last-ever Roland Garros campaign.
In fact, such was the adulation that she bestowed upon him, Osaka actually likened the 39-year-old to Serena and Venus Williams.
Who will you miss the most of these retiring legends? 😢
She claimed: “Honestly, for me, seeing representation is so important.
“On the women’s side, for me I’ve had Serena and Venus, so I was so grateful to them. On the men’s side I always looked up to him and Tsonga for such a long time.
“I think it’s just so important and obviously there’s a wave of black French guys coming up. I know for sure he’s inspired a lot of players here. I don’t know. I just love the way he carries himself, the way he represents us. He’s just such a really cool guy, and it’s nice to talk to him now because we talk about our kids and I don’t know, it’s just a funny thing to have in common with him.”
Osaka recently lost to Iga Swiatek in Rome, in her final match before Roland Garros. Her only two losses on clay this season have come against the Polish star and Aryna Sabalenka.
Gael Monfils’ first-round match at the 2026 French Open promises fireworks
Monfils is not expected to enjoy a deep run at Roland Garros this year, but fans would surely delight in seeing him at least win a match or two before bowing out forever.
And those lucky enough to get tickets to his first-round clash with Hugo Gaston will certainly be treated to a thriller, and a raucous atmosphere too.
After all, it pits two Frenchmen against each another, with Monfils seeking to overcome a player 14 years his junior.
The two have never played one another, and are both currently ranked outside of the world’s top 100.
What could stop Naomi Osaka from winning a Grand Slam title in 2026?
Credit: Sofascore
And yet, whenever Monfils steps onto a court, fireworks are guaranteed.
He will be desperate to put on a show for his home fans, and leave them with a lasting memory that resembles the showmanship he has become renowned for.
