Naomi Osaka hit the headlines after winning a sensational title in Indian Wells. Soon after, the Japanese conceded just 5 games to a rusty Serena Williams in the Miami 1st round. Many regards Naomi as the next big thing, but unfortunately that is creating some problems for the 20-year-old.
Osaka had already some issues with her nerves in the past. In 2016 she ended up in tears on court after she blew a sizeable lead (5-1 in the 3rd set) against Madison Keys. Last year, Naomi talked about depression after losing at the Roland Garros. Now in Charleston, she spoke strongly about her mental condition following her defeat at the hands of Julia Goerges (7-6 (4) 6-3).
About her depression
Naomi commented
“This started yesterday, I woke up and I was really depressed. I don’t know why.
I was able to win two matches, but I feel like that doesn’t really say I can play well on clay. It’s more just that I’m an OK player. I was able to play OK. I am so sad right now.”
Naomi Osaka won her first tour title at Indian Wells earlier this month. But after falling in her second match at Miami, and in her third match here in Charleston, the emotions spilled over.
This loss hurt.
Osaka on the mental and emotional challenges today:#WTA #VolvoCarOpen pic.twitter.com/mSUAZynuLl
— Daren Stoltzfus (@DarenStoltzfus) April 5, 2018
Osaka wasn’t in the right mood also the day before while winning in the second round against Laura Siegemund to comment
“I was kind of upset throughout the whole match, to be honest – I’m just really glad I was able to win.
I hear your questions, but I’m not really paying attention too much. I’m really not paying attention to anything. I’m super tired all the time, and I feel like everything’s gone by really quickly.
I’m just trying to think about my matches here, and I can think about the other stuff later.”
A nice time off may help.
