After a hard-fought battle in the Montreal final, Naomi Osaka opened up about an emotional moment she overlooked during the trophy ceremony. While she praised Victoria Mboko’s performance in her post-match comments, she admitted she forgot to congratulate her opponent on court.
A Moment of Honest Reflection
Speaking candidly after the match, Osaka said, “Yeah, I mean, definitely. I think it’s kind of funny. This morning I was very grateful. I don’t know why my emotions flipped so quickly, but I’m really happy to have played the final. I think Victoria played really well. I completely forgot to congratulate her on the court. Yeah, I mean, she did really amazing.” Her words revealed a mix of humility and regret, showing how the intensity of competition can sometimes cloud even the most gracious intentions.
Mboko’s Breakthrough Performance
Victoria Mboko’s victory was a defining moment in her young career. She played with confidence and composure, defeating Osaka 6–4, 3–6, 6–3. The win not only earned her the title but also signaled her emergence as a serious contender on the WTA tour. Her ability to stay focused and execute under pressure impressed fans and analysts alike.
Positives Amid Disappointment
Despite the loss, Osaka acknowledged the progress she made during the week. “Obviously it’s not the result you would have wanted today, but it’s been such an incredible week,” a commentator noted. “You know, back in a 1000 final, and like you were celebrating earlier in the week, that you boosted your ranking and were able to make US Open seedings once again.” Osaka agreed, recognizing the value of reaching the final and the momentum she’s building ahead of the US Open.
Emotional Swings and Competitive Fire
Osaka’s emotional shift from gratitude to frustration is something many athletes experience. The pressure of high-stakes matches, combined with personal expectations, can lead to moments of introspection. Her openness about forgetting to acknowledge Mboko on court adds a layer of vulnerability that fans appreciate.
Looking Forward with Grace
Though the final ended in defeat, Osaka’s reflections show her continued growth both as a player and a person. Her recognition of Mboko’s achievement, even belatedly, reinforces her respect for the game and its rising stars. As she prepares for the next tournament, Osaka carries with her the lessons of Montreal—both the triumphs and the missed moments.
Victoria Mboko in 2025
Currently ranked no.85 (career-high), Victoria played her last match on the 7th of August when she overcame world no.49 Naomi Osaka 2-6 6-4 6-1 in the final in Montreal to win her 12th challenger.
At present, during this year the Canadian has achieved a compiled 53-9 match record. The Canadian conquered 6 titles in 2025 in the W35 Le Lamentin, the Bourg, the W75 Rome, the W35 Manchester, the W75 Porto and Montreal. Mboko was the runner-up in the Parma.
Naomi Osaka in 2025
Currently ranked no.49, Naomi played her last match on the 7th of August when she lost to world no.85 Victoria Mboko 2-6 6-4 6-1 in the final in Montreal (draw).
This season the Japanese has achieved a compiled 27-12 win-loss record. Osaka conquered 1 title in the Malo. The Japanese reached the final in Auckland and Montreal.
Victoria Mboko and Naomi Osaka played each other just once. Their actual head to head record is 1-0 for Mboko.
