Naomi Osaka's blunt assessment about losing at the U.S. Open is gut-wrenching

Naomi Osaka‘s return to her career hasn’t been without its challenges. After dropping a U.S. Open second-round match to Karolina Muchova, the tennis star transparently assessed what losing feels like.

Returning to typical activities after a life-altering event, like having a baby, can be grueling. Any progress made after that point is tremendous, and it’s especially awe-inspiring for athletes. However, it seems that Naomi Osaka may not be meeting the possible expectations she set for herself during her comeback.

All positive vibes after winning a first-round match at the U.S. Open just days ago quickly faded when Naomi was ousted in straight sets Thursday. Here’s what she told the media about how it feels to lose (See the 3:53 mark of the YouTube video below):

“It’s a little rough because I do take these losses really personally…It’s like a dramatic word, but, like, I feel like my heart dies every time I lose.”

“And it sucks a lot, but I’ve been trying to be more mature and learn and talk more about them.”

"My heart dies every time I lose."

Naomi Osaka has spoken honestly after her US Open comeback ended in a second-round defeat by Karolina Muchova.#BBCTennis #USOpen pic.twitter.com/xEV49QSurm

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) August 30, 2024