Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has labeled 2024 her “learning year” after an early exit in the US Open marked a return from maternity. Former world number one Osaka, 26, made early exits in all four majors this year. The US Open saw her go down to Karolina Muchova in the second round, struggling against the serve-and-volley game of the Czech.
Osaka, the double US Open champion, said the defeats have not been easy to swallow. “I take these losses really personally. It’s like my heart dies every time I lose,” she revealed. Still, Osaka is learning from such defeats by putting in the work on her growth and maturity as the balancing act between her mental health and professional tennis is tough.
Since returning in January after 15 months away, Osaka has packed her schedule since her return in January after 15 months away; it has resulted in mixed outcomes. Though Osaka flashed moments of brilliance – such as a straight-sets win over the 10th seed Jelena Ostapenko in New York – consistency has so far eluded her.
It’s been a little rough, but also fun,” Osaka said, reflecting upon her year. “This year has been a commitment, and I’ve learned a lot. The US Open remains very special to me, and I’m looking forward to improving.”
