Naomi Osaka expressed a positive outlook following her recent defeat to Elena Rybakina in the Round of 16 at the US Open on 7th September 2026. The 28-year-old tennis star made it clear that she does not feel disheartened by the loss, focusing instead on the lessons she can glean from her experiences on the court.
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After the match, Osaka addressed reporters, stating, “I think I am happy I’m taking losses differently. I’m trying to learn from them a lot more.” This marks a noticeable shift in Osaka’s mindset, as she has openly discussed her evolving relationship with defeat and how it affects her overall well-being.
While she acknowledged the disappointment of not performing at her best due to physical limitations, she quickly shifted the conversation to her gratitude for life’s more significant joys. “But for me, if I think about my life, my daughter is healthy. Everyone in my family is great,” she added. This reflects Osaka’s prioritisation of family and health over sports outcomes, which is a testament to her maturity both as a player and as a person.
Having previously won the US Open titles in 2018 and 2020, Osaka’s approach to tennis has evolved significantly. Looking back at her performance, she noted that this is not the first time she has left a tournament feeling unperturbed by a defeat. “Last year I wasn’t that disappointed either,” she recalled, referring to her semi-final exit against Amanda Anisimova in 2025. “Amanda just played really insane,” she joked, reflecting on the competitive nature of the sport while emphasising her resilience.
Osaka’s focus on her family reflects her current priorities. She welcomed her daughter, Shai, with her former partner, rapper Cordae, in July 2023. Ahead of this year’s US Open, she had commented on how her identity as a mother takes precedence over her career in tennis. “I think people forget my main job is to be a mum. This [tennis] is kind of like my side hustle a little bit. I just happen to be really good at it,” she explained, highlighting the balance she strives for between her professional and personal life.
During her time at the tournament, Osaka showcased her creative side, capturing attention with various unique outfits, including a special homage to basketball legend Allen Iverson. When asked about her aspirations for more surprises at the event, she conveyed her enthusiasm for self-expression through her fashion choices, stating, “There’s always something. That’s a way that I can have fun and sort of just excite myself also. But I’m honestly not disappointed now.”
As she contemplates the future, Osaka remains optimistic, noting, “I had an opportunity to play this Slam. I got as far as I could. It’s only up from here I guess.” This determination and hopeful sentiment suggest Osaka is keen to build on her past performances.
In summary, Naomi Osaka’s recent encounter at the US Open exemplifies her remarkable ability to find positivity in difficult situations. Her reflections on personal and professional growth, coupled with her commitment to family, demonstrate a holistic approach to life’s challenges, transcending the confines of sports. As she continues to navigate her career and motherhood, Osaka’s evolution may serve as an inspiration to both her fans and fellow athletes alike.