What should have been the greatest day in the life of Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka, turned into a horror show.
All thanks to her hero and US Open final opponent, Serena Williams.
Entering the match, Osaka said: “It feels a little bit, like, surreal.
“Even when I was a little kid, I always dreamed that I would play Serena in a final of a Grand Slam.
“At the same time I feel like even though I should enjoy this moment, I should still think of it as another match.
“Yeah, I shouldn’t really think of her as, like, my idol.
“I should just try to play her as an opponent.”
So there’s been a lot going on but I just want to say, I was grateful to have the opportunity to play on that stage yesterday. Thank you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/utiEKJF8NN
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@Naomi_Osaka_) September 9, 2018
Osaka played Williams and she beat her, but instead of it being a joyous occasion for the 20-year-old first-time winner, it was soured by Williams’ meltdown.
As arguably the greatest female tennis player ever, Williams would have known of the respect her opponent had for her.
Now even if she felt the umpire had insulted her, to go on like she did on court, while Osaka was supposed to be having the best moment in her life, was uncalled for.
That’s why they have press conferences after every match.
Anyway, back to Osaka. She handled the situation well and her humility certainly has won her some fans.
I know I, for one, will be following her career closely.