Two-time champion Naomi Osaka's US&nbsp;Open title defence ended in tears on Friday, as she suffered a stunning defeat in the third round to Canadian Leylah Fernandez 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4, and told reporters she planned to take a break from the sport.

"I feel like I'm kind of at this point where I'm trying to figure out what I want to do. Honestly I don't know when I'm going to play my next tennis match," she said, breaking down in tears at a post-match press conference and pulling the brim of her visor over her eyes.

"I think I'm going to take a break from playing for a while."

Playing in her first Grand Slam since pulling out of the French Open earlier this year and disclosing her battle with depression, Osaka's return to Flushing Meadows did not go to plan, as she wordlessly left the court after uncharacteristically losing her cool in the second set tiebreak.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-tolerance-up-to-a-certain-point-novak-djokovic-after-being-heckled-during-us-open-410484">'I have tolerance up to a certain point': Novak Djokovic after being heckled during US Open</a>

The third seed whacked her racquet and then flung it onto the court twice in frustration as Fernandez scored five straight points in the tiebreak, in a series of superb play.

Osaka did not receive a warning or a code violation and left the court between sets, later telling reporters she struggled to contain her emotions.

"I'm really sorry about that," she said. "I was telling myself to be calm, but I feel like maybe there was a boiling point.

"Like normally I feel like I like challenges. But recently I feel very anxious when things don't go my way, and I feel like you can feel that. I'm not really sure why it happens the way it happens now."

Her troubles continued as the 18-year-old Canadian broke her serve to kick off the third set, and Osaka hit a ball into the stands in the second game, prompting a warning from the chair umpire.

In the ninth game Osaka rushed through her serves, not even waiting for the crowd to quiet down, as she was unable to create a single break point opportunity in the final set.

A fan favourite, Osaka has struggled with uneven play since she withdrew from Roland Garros earlier this year amid a public row with tournament officials over required media appearances, which she said had a negative impact on her mental health.

She told fans that she has struggled with depression for years, prompting new discussion https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/us-open-unfolds-amid-new-era-players-mental-health-2021-08-28 around mental health in professional sport.

"How do I go around saying this? I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief. And then when I lose, I feel very sad, said Osaka.

"I don't think that's normal."

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Always a fight from, <a href="https://twitter.com/naomiosaka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@naomiosaka</a>. 
 
See you next year, champ. <a href="https://t.co/P3KQzB7M4V">pic.twitter.com/P3KQzB7M4V</a>
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Leylah Fernandez, folks!<a href="https://twitter.com/leylahfernandez?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@leylahfernandez</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/IVjxcZj3Kh">pic.twitter.com/IVjxcZj3Kh</a>
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FERNANDEZ BREAKTHROUGH

It was a breakthrough performance for Fernandez, who reached the fourth round of a major for the first time just a few days shy of her 19th birthday.

She fired off 28 winners across the three sets, and said in a televised interview that she worked at "just finding the solutions" during the match.

"She's a great server, she's been hitting aces left, right and centre," Fernandez said of Osaka.

She told reporters she was able to rely on in her own serve, as well, as she won more than three quarters of her first-serve points and fired off six aces.

"I've been serving really well the past few matches. Today I just went on court with a lot of confidence on my serve, trusting it, trusting that I'm going to hit my targets when I needed to, and I did," she said.

It was the second shock Alcaraz upsets Tsitsipas to reach U.S. Open fourth round upset of the evening at Flushing Meadows, after 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz knocked world number three Stefanos Tsitsipas out in a five-set thriller.

Fernandez next faces 2016 champion Angelique Kerber of Germany.

Two-time champion Naomi Osaka's US Open title defence ended in tears on Friday, as she suffered a stunning defeat in the third round to Canadian Leylah Fernandez 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4, and told reporters she planned to take a break from the sport.

Two-time champion Naomi Osaka's US Open title defence ended in tears on Friday, as she suffered a stunning defeat in the third round to Canadian Leylah Fernandez 5-7 7-6(2) 6-4, and told reporters she planned to take a break from the sport. "I feel like I'm kind of at this point where I'm trying to figure out what I want to do. Honestly I don't know when I'm going to play my next tennis match," she said, breaking down in tears at a post-match press conference and pulling the brim of her visor over her eyes. "I think I'm going to take a break from playing for a while." Playing in her first Grand Slam since pulling out of the French Open earlier this year and disclosing her battle with depression, Osaka's return to Flushing Meadows did not go to plan, as she wordlessly left the court after uncharacteristically losing her cool in the second set tiebreak. ALSO READ | 'I have tolerance up to a certain point': Novak Djokovic after being heckled during US Open The third seed whacked her racquet and then flung it onto the court twice in frustration as Fernandez scored five straight points in the tiebreak, in a series of superb play. Osaka did not receive a warning or a code violation and left the court between sets, later telling reporters she struggled to contain her emotions. "I'm really sorry about that," she said. "I was telling myself to be calm, but I feel like maybe there was a boiling point. "Like normally I feel like I like challenges. But recently I feel very anxious when things don't go my way, and I feel like you can feel that. I'm not really sure why it happens the way it happens now." Her troubles continued as the 18-year-old Canadian broke her serve to kick off the third set, and Osaka hit a ball into the stands in the second game, prompting a warning from the chair umpire. In the ninth game Osaka rushed through her serves, not even waiting for the crowd to quiet down, as she was unable to create a single break point opportunity in the final set. A fan favourite, Osaka has struggled with uneven play since she withdrew from Roland Garros earlier this year amid a public row with tournament officials over required media appearances, which she said had a negative impact on her mental health. She told fans that she has struggled with depression for years, prompting new discussion https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/us-open-unfolds-amid-new-era-players-mental-health-2021-08-28 around mental health in professional sport. "How do I go around saying this? I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief. And then when I lose, I feel very sad, said Osaka. "I don't think that's normal." Always a fight from, @naomiosaka. See you next year, champ. pic.twitter.com/P3KQzB7M4V — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 4, 2021 × Leylah Fernandez, folks!@leylahfernandez | #USOpen pic.twitter.com/IVjxcZj3Kh — US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 4, 2021 × FERNANDEZ BREAKTHROUGH It was a breakthrough performance for Fernandez, who reached the fourth round of a major for the first time just a few days shy of her 19th birthday. She fired off 28 winners across the three sets, and said in a televised interview that she worked at "just finding the solutions" during the match. "She's a great server, she's been hitting aces left, right and centre," Fernandez said of Osaka. She told reporters she was able to rely on in her own serve, as well, as she won more than three quarters of her first-serve points and fired off six aces. "I've been serving really well the past few matches. Today I just went on court with a lot of confidence on my serve, trusting it, trusting that I'm going to hit my targets when I needed to, and I did," she said. It was the second shock Alcaraz upsets Tsitsipas to reach U.S. Open fourth round upset of the evening at Flushing Meadows, after 18-year-old Carlos Alcaraz knocked world number three Stefanos Tsitsipas out in a five-set thriller. Fernandez next faces 2016 champion Angelique Kerber of Germany.

Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition.

The world number three suffered a stunning defeat in the third round of the U.S. Open on Friday before tearfully telling reporters she planned to take an indefinite break from the sport.

"I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief," said Osaka, months after publicly disclosing that she had suffered from depression.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/everyone-suddenly-is-against-me-stefanos-tsitsipas-defiant-on-us-open-exit-410632">'Everyone suddenly is against me': Stefanos Tsitsipas defiant on US Open exit</a>

Retired American tennis pro James Blake applauded her decision.

"Please do what is best for you @naomiosaka," he wrote on Twitter Saturday. "We want to see your extraordinary tennis again, but more importantly, we want to see you happy."

Six-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker responded to Blake in a quote retweet: "That's right."

The 23-year-old has ushered in a new conversation around mental health in professional sport after she dropped out of the French Open amid a public row over mandatory press conferences at the Grand Slam, saying they took too great a toll on her mental wellbeing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/naomi-osaka-suffers-shock-loss-in-us-open-plans-to-take-break-from-the-sport-410602">Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport</a>

Osaka's influence extends far beyond the court, as she brought the Black Lives Matter protest to tennis' international platform a year ago, becoming a leading figure for athlete advocacy in the process.

"Good decision. Young, trying to figure out life, how to win consistently, and as a huge celebrity athlete is hard! Trying to also be a change maker too. Exponentially harder!" four-time Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Michael Johnson wrote on Twitter.

"If there was ever a need for an athlete to step away, this is it."

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition.

Retired athletes voiced their support for four-time Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka on Saturday after she said she would take a break from tennis having lost her enthusiasm for competition. The world number three suffered a stunning defeat in the third round of the U.S. Open on Friday before tearfully telling reporters she planned to take an indefinite break from the sport. "I feel like for me recently, like, when I win I don't feel happy. I feel more like a relief," said Osaka, months after publicly disclosing that she had suffered from depression. ALSO READ | 'Everyone suddenly is against me': Stefanos Tsitsipas defiant on US Open exit Retired American tennis pro James Blake applauded her decision. "Please do what is best for you @naomiosaka," he wrote on Twitter Saturday. "We want to see your extraordinary tennis again, but more importantly, we want to see you happy." Six-time Grand Slam winner Boris Becker responded to Blake in a quote retweet: "That's right." The 23-year-old has ushered in a new conversation around mental health in professional sport after she dropped out of the French Open amid a public row over mandatory press conferences at the Grand Slam, saying they took too great a toll on her mental wellbeing. ALSO READ | Naomi Osaka suffers shock loss in US Open, plans to take break from the sport Osaka's influence extends far beyond the court, as she brought the Black Lives Matter protest to tennis' international platform a year ago, becoming a leading figure for athlete advocacy in the process. "Good decision. Young, trying to figure out life, how to win consistently, and as a huge celebrity athlete is hard! Trying to also be a change maker too. Exponentially harder!" four-time Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Michael Johnson wrote on Twitter. "If there was ever a need for an athlete to step away, this is it."

Naomi Osaka earns support after announcing break from sport

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021.

Osaka, who rocketed to fame when she beat superstar Serena Williams in the 2018 US Open final, appeared set for a sparkling 2021 campaign after she beat American Jen Brady in the Australian Open final in February to capture her fourth major crown.

But she has played sparingly since, pulling out of the French Open after she was fined for failing to meet mandatory media requirements.

Osaka, who said she believed post-match news conferences were detrimental to her mental health, opted out of Wimbledon as well, and after the magical moment of lighting the cauldron at the Tokyo Olympics bowed out in the third round.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/johanna-konta-not-sure-if-she-should-have-taken-covid-19-vaccine-409308">Johanna Konta not sure if she should have taken COVID-19 vaccine</a>&nbsp;

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"Did we just become best friends?!"<a href="https://twitter.com/steftsitsipas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@steftsitsipas</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/dudewithsign?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dudewithsign</a> met in person and the results were glorious. <a href="https://t.co/KECZdfN9y4">pic.twitter.com/KECZdfN9y4</a>
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1431243846768332801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Although she also lost in the third round at Cincinnati in August, Osaka said she was "pretty happy" with her game heading into the high-pressure atmosphere of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows.

As she looked ahead to her Monday opener against Czech Marie Bouzkova Osaka said in a social media post that she wants to start to savor her accomplishments and let go of negative thoughts.

"Recently I've been asking myself why do I feel the way I do and I realize one of the reasons is because internally I think I'm never good enough," she wrote. "I never tell myself that I've done a good job, but I do know I constantly tell myself that I suck or I could do better.

"Seeing everything that's going on in the world I feel like if I wake up in the morning that's a win," Osaka wrote. "Your life is your own and you shouldn't value yourself on other people's standards. I know I give my heart to everything I can and if that's not good enough for some then my apologies but I can't burden myself with those expectations anymore."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/covid-19-andy-murray-urges-fellow-players-to-get-vaccinated-409156">COVID-19: Andy Murray urges fellow players to get vaccinated</a>

Osaka has already acknowledged that it will take some adjusting after last year's spectator ban to adjust to the return of fans to the 23,771-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Crowds at the normally rowdy Open will be back at full capacity, although organizers announced last week that all attendees will be required to provide proof of having received at least one Covid-19 vaccination.

With world number one Novak Djokovic waiting in the wings, second-ranked Daniil Medvedev closes out the action on Ashe on Monday against French veteran Richard Gasquet.

Play opens with former women's champion Sloane Stephens taking on Madison Keys in an All-American clash.

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Get ready for your return. 
 
Updated <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USOpen</a> health and safety protocols ⬇️
— US Open Tennis (@usopen) <a href="https://twitter.com/usopen/status/1432113551146196994?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Murray v Tsitsipas

Then former champion Andy Murray faces a daunting challenge as he continues his return from his latest injury as he goes up against third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece.

"Not the easiest draw out there," Murray, whose 2012 US Open triumph was the first of his three Grand Slam victories, said.

"When you're not seeded, these sorts of things can happen," Murray said, adding that he thought the New York crowd could help him.

"They like people that fight, give their all, show their heart and emotion and energy on the court," he said.

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We're all champions, every day 💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BeOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BeOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/2w2sKq8P9H">pic.twitter.com/2w2sKq8P9H</a>
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Elsewhere on Monday, former world number one Victoria Azarenka -- who fell to Osaka in last year's final -- takes on Czech Tereza Martincova on Grandstand court.

Also on Grandstand Simona Halep, who was forced out of her Wimbledon title defense with a calf injury, takes on Italian Camila Giorgi.

Women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus faces Serb Nina Stojanovic to open the night session on Louis Armstrong court, where rising US star Coco Gauff anchors the day session and mercurial Australian Nick Kyrgios brings down the curtain against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut.

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021.

Naomi Osaka launches her bid for a third US Open title in four years on Monday, aiming to put turmoil behind her as she chases her second Grand Slam title of 2021. Osaka, who rocketed to fame when she beat superstar Serena Williams in the 2018 US Open final, appeared set for a sparkling 2021 campaign after she beat American Jen Brady in the Australian Open final in February to capture her fourth major crown. But she has played sparingly since, pulling out of the French Open after she was fined for failing to meet mandatory media requirements. Osaka, who said she believed post-match news conferences were detrimental to her mental health, opted out of Wimbledon as well, and after the magical moment of lighting the cauldron at the Tokyo Olympics bowed out in the third round. ALSO READ | Johanna Konta not sure if she should have taken COVID-19 vaccine "Did we just become best friends?!"@steftsitsipas & @dudewithsign met in person and the results were glorious. pic.twitter.com/KECZdfN9y4 — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 27, 2021 × Although she also lost in the third round at Cincinnati in August, Osaka said she was "pretty happy" with her game heading into the high-pressure atmosphere of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows. As she looked ahead to her Monday opener against Czech Marie Bouzkova Osaka said in a social media post that she wants to start to savor her accomplishments and let go of negative thoughts. "Recently I've been asking myself why do I feel the way I do and I realize one of the reasons is because internally I think I'm never good enough," she wrote. "I never tell myself that I've done a good job, but I do know I constantly tell myself that I suck or I could do better. "Seeing everything that's going on in the world I feel like if I wake up in the morning that's a win," Osaka wrote. "Your life is your own and you shouldn't value yourself on other people's standards. I know I give my heart to everything I can and if that's not good enough for some then my apologies but I can't burden myself with those expectations anymore." ALSO READ | COVID-19: Andy Murray urges fellow players to get vaccinated Osaka has already acknowledged that it will take some adjusting after last year's spectator ban to adjust to the return of fans to the 23,771-seat Arthur Ashe Stadium. Crowds at the normally rowdy Open will be back at full capacity, although organizers announced last week that all attendees will be required to provide proof of having received at least one Covid-19 vaccination. With world number one Novak Djokovic waiting in the wings, second-ranked Daniil Medvedev closes out the action on Ashe on Monday against French veteran Richard Gasquet. Play opens with former women's champion Sloane Stephens taking on Madison Keys in an All-American clash. Get ready for your return. Updated #USOpen health and safety protocols ⬇️ — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 29, 2021 × Murray v Tsitsipas Then former champion Andy Murray faces a daunting challenge as he continues his return from his latest injury as he goes up against third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece. "Not the easiest draw out there," Murray, whose 2012 US Open triumph was the first of his three Grand Slam victories, said. "When you're not seeded, these sorts of things can happen," Murray said, adding that he thought the New York crowd could help him. "They like people that fight, give their all, show their heart and emotion and energy on the court," he said. We're all champions, every day 💪 #BeOpen pic.twitter.com/2w2sKq8P9H — US Open Tennis (@usopen) August 29, 2021 × Elsewhere on Monday, former world number one Victoria Azarenka -- who fell to Osaka in last year's final -- takes on Czech Tereza Martincova on Grandstand court. Also on Grandstand Simona Halep, who was forced out of her Wimbledon title defense with a calf injury, takes on Italian Camila Giorgi. Women's second seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus faces Serb Nina Stojanovic to open the night session on Louis Armstrong court, where rising US star Coco Gauff anchors the day session and mercurial Australian Nick Kyrgios brings down the curtain against Spain's Roberto Bautista Agut.

Defending champion Naomi Osaka in spotlight as US Open begins

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has said that Australian world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty will be the favourite to add to her Wimbledon title this year when action begins at the US Open on September 30, adding that "consistency" and her "powerful forehand" were the trump cards of the champion player. 
 
"Consistency. You have to play a really good match to beat her, you have to think. Because she`s a thinker, right? She finds places on the court where most players don`t. She has the variety that no one else has, with the slice and the drive and running around. The powerful forehand, big serve. She`s leading the WTA in aces [with 297]. She moves so well, it`s hard to find openings against her. Just bashing won`t do it, because she can hang back and neutralise the big shot with her slice, brings you in, now you don`t have any court to work with, really," Navratilova, the WTA all-time leader with 167 titles, told wtatennis.com on Friday. 
 
The 64-year-old Prague-born player, who won a total of 59 Grand Slam titles -- 18 singles, 31 doubles and 10 mixed doubles and won the US Open singles title four times, added that though Iga Swiatek may have gone off the boil "a little bit", the Polish player is a dangerous player if the courts suit her. 
 
"Let`s see who catches the form when it matters the most. Because quite often at the US Open, it`s who gets hot the two weeks, and maybe they don`t do much the rest of the year or the next. Maybe they win another major a few years later. Iga Swiatek, we haven`t talked about her, but she`s gone off the boil a little bit. Still dangerous -- it will depend on how the courts play," added Navratilova. 
 
The legend also felt that Japan`s Naomi Osaka, despite having won only three matches in the three months and having been plagued by mental health issues, can "put it all together in New York". 
 
"Absolutely, absolutely. She`s done it before, where she was like, `Uh, what`s going on with her?` -- and then she wins. Wins Australia, wins the US Open. You cannot underestimate her; she is too good for that. She`ll be ready. The Olympics was a lot of pressure for her. I don`t know if I could have walked up those steps to light the Olympic torch. Talk about pressure, right? Talk about being out of your comfort zone. The whole world is watching, you really don`t want to trip at that point," said Navratilova. 
 
"Maybe after that, she can just relax, play her best tennis. Shine. She`s done it the hard way against Serena Williams the first time [2018]; she`s done it the hard way again with no crowd [2020]. Now maybe she can finally do it with the crowd and no drama, just play her game. It`s all about tennis. The drama is behind her with the French Open, didn`t play Wimbledon and the Olympics had to be such a pressure cooker for her."

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has said that Australian world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty will be the favourite to add to her Wimbledon title this year when action begins at the US Open on September 30, adding that "consistency" and her "powerful forehand" were the trump cards of the champion player.

Tennis legend Martina Navratilova has said that Australian world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty will be the favourite to add to her Wimbledon title this year when action begins at the US Open on September 30, adding that "consistency" and her "powerful forehand" were the trump cards of the champion player. "Consistency. You have to play a really good match to beat her, you have to think. Because she`s a thinker, right? She finds places on the court where most players don`t. She has the variety that no one else has, with the slice and the drive and running around. The powerful forehand, big serve. She`s leading the WTA in aces [with 297]. She moves so well, it`s hard to find openings against her. Just bashing won`t do it, because she can hang back and neutralise the big shot with her slice, brings you in, now you don`t have any court to work with, really," Navratilova, the WTA all-time leader with 167 titles, told wtatennis.com on Friday. The 64-year-old Prague-born player, who won a total of 59 Grand Slam titles -- 18 singles, 31 doubles and 10 mixed doubles and won the US Open singles title four times, added that though Iga Swiatek may have gone off the boil "a little bit", the Polish player is a dangerous player if the courts suit her. "Let`s see who catches the form when it matters the most. Because quite often at the US Open, it`s who gets hot the two weeks, and maybe they don`t do much the rest of the year or the next. Maybe they win another major a few years later. Iga Swiatek, we haven`t talked about her, but she`s gone off the boil a little bit. Still dangerous -- it will depend on how the courts play," added Navratilova. The legend also felt that Japan`s Naomi Osaka, despite having won only three matches in the three months and having been plagued by mental health issues, can "put it all together in New York". "Absolutely, absolutely. She`s done it before, where she was like, `Uh, what`s going on with her?` -- and then she wins. Wins Australia, wins the US Open. You cannot underestimate her; she is too good for that. She`ll be ready. The Olympics was a lot of pressure for her. I don`t know if I could have walked up those steps to light the Olympic torch. Talk about pressure, right? Talk about being out of your comfort zone. The whole world is watching, you really don`t want to trip at that point," said Navratilova. "Maybe after that, she can just relax, play her best tennis. Shine. She`s done it the hard way against Serena Williams the first time [2018]; she`s done it the hard way again with no crowd [2020]. Now maybe she can finally do it with the crowd and no drama, just play her game. It`s all about tennis. The drama is behind her with the French Open, didn`t play Wimbledon and the Olympics had to be such a pressure cooker for her."

Barty favourite, Osaka can overcome her problems at US Open: Navratilova

Naomi Osaka said she had felt "ungrateful" at times over the last year for not fully appreciating her life as one of the world`s top tennis players. 
 
The world number two sealed a comeback victory over Coco Gauff at the Western &amp; Southern Open in Cincinnati on Wednesday, her first event outside the Olympics since withdrawing from the French Open in May. 
 
She pulled out of Roland Garros after being punished for refusing to do media conferences, saying her mental health was adversely impacted by certain lines of questioning. 
 
Osaka shed tears and briefly left a press conference in Cincinnati on Monday when asked about her relationship with the media and returned to the theme on Wednesday. 
 
"I was wondering why was I so affected, I guess, like what made me not want to do media," the 23-year-old told a news conference. 
 
"I`m wondering if I was scared, because sometimes I would see headlines of like players losing and then the headline the next day would be like a collapse or they`re not that great anymore. 
 
"So then I was thinking me waking up every day, for me, I should feel like I`m winning. Like, the choice to go out there and play, to go see fans that people come out and watch me play, that itself is an accomplishment. 
 
"I`m not sure when along the way I started desensitizing that. Like it started not being like an accomplishment for me. So I felt like I was very ungrateful on that fact." 
 
The four-times Grand Slam champion said the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic had made things "really stressful" her but recent events in Haiti and Afghanistan led to a change in her outlook. 
 
A 7.2-magnitude earthquake has killed more than 2,000 people in Haiti https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/haitians-sheltering-tents-grow-impatient-aid-after-devastating-quake-2021-08-18 -- the country where her father was born -- while Afghanistan has been in turmoil https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/evacuations-afghanistan-gather-momentum-taliban-promise-peace-2021-08-18. 
 
"Seeing the state of the world, like how everything is in Haiti, Afghanistan right now, is definitely really crazy," she said. 
 
"And for me to just be hitting a tennis ball in the United States right now and have people come and watch me play ... I would want to be myself in this situation rather than anyone else in the world."

Naomi Osaka said she had felt "ungrateful" at times over the last year for not fully appreciating her life as one of the world`s top tennis players. The world number two sealed a comeback victory over Coco Gauff at the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati on Wednesday, her first event outside the Olympics since withdrawing from the French Open in May.

Naomi Osaka said she had felt "ungrateful" at times over the last year for not fully appreciating her life as one of the world`s top tennis players. The world number two sealed a comeback victory over Coco Gauff at the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati on Wednesday, her first event outside the Olympics since withdrawing from the French Open in May. She pulled out of Roland Garros after being punished for refusing to do media conferences, saying her mental health was adversely impacted by certain lines of questioning. Osaka shed tears and briefly left a press conference in Cincinnati on Monday when asked about her relationship with the media and returned to the theme on Wednesday. "I was wondering why was I so affected, I guess, like what made me not want to do media," the 23-year-old told a news conference. "I`m wondering if I was scared, because sometimes I would see headlines of like players losing and then the headline the next day would be like a collapse or they`re not that great anymore. "So then I was thinking me waking up every day, for me, I should feel like I`m winning. Like, the choice to go out there and play, to go see fans that people come out and watch me play, that itself is an accomplishment. "I`m not sure when along the way I started desensitizing that. Like it started not being like an accomplishment for me. So I felt like I was very ungrateful on that fact." The four-times Grand Slam champion said the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic had made things "really stressful" her but recent events in Haiti and Afghanistan led to a change in her outlook. A 7.2-magnitude earthquake has killed more than 2,000 people in Haiti https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/haitians-sheltering-tents-grow-impatient-aid-after-devastating-quake-2021-08-18 -- the country where her father was born -- while Afghanistan has been in turmoil https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/evacuations-afghanistan-gather-momentum-taliban-promise-peace-2021-08-18. "Seeing the state of the world, like how everything is in Haiti, Afghanistan right now, is definitely really crazy," she said. "And for me to just be hitting a tennis ball in the United States right now and have people come and watch me play ... I would want to be myself in this situation rather than anyone else in the world."

Japanese star Naomi Osaka felt 'ungrateful' for her attitude to tennis

Naomi Osaka briefly left a press conference in Cincinnati on Monday after she appeared to get upset with a line of questioning about her relationship with the media, leading her agent to describe a reporter as a "bully". 
 
Osaka withdrew from the French Open earlier this year after being punished for refusing to do media conferences, saying her mental health was adversely impacted by certain lines of questioning. 
 
On Monday, a reporter from a Cincinnati newspaper asked the 23-year-old: “You`re not crazy about dealing with us, especially in this format. Yet you have a lot of outside interests that are served by having a media platform. How do you balance the two?” 
 
Osaka twice asked the reporter to clarify his question and turned down an offer from the moderator to ”move on to the next question” before giving a full reply. 
 
"Ever since I was younger, I have had a lot of media interest on me, and I think it`s because of my background as well," said Osaka, who is of Japanese-Haitian heritage but grew up mainly in the United States. 
 
"I can`t really help that there are some things that I tweet or some things that I say that kind of create a lot of news articles or things like that ... but I would also say I`m not really sure how to balance the two. Like I`m figuring it out at the same time as you are, I would say." 
 
When another reporter began to ask about her preparations for the summer hard-court season and her pledge to donate her prize money from this week’s Western &amp; Southern Open to Haitian earthquake relief efforts, Osaka appeared to wipe away tears. 
 
The moderator called for a pause to the proceedings and Osaka left the room for a few minutes but returned to complete the news conference. 
 
Osaka’s French Open withdrawal not only led to her revealing that she has struggled to cope with depression for a number of years but it also prompted her to pull out from Roland Garros and Wimbledon for the sake of her mental well-being. 
 
After losing early at the Tokyo Games, where she was given the honour of lighting the Olympic flame at the opening ceremony, she said she struggled to cope with the huge pressure and expectation placed on her. 
 
Osaka`s agent, Stuart Duguid, condemned the reporter`s line of questioning on Monday in a statement provided to Reuters. 
 
"The bully at the Cincinnati Enquirer is the epitome of why player/media relations are so fraught right now," said Duguid. 
 
"Everyone on that Zoom will agree that his tone was all wrong and his sole purpose was to intimidate. Really appalling behaviour. 
 
"And this insinuation that Naomi owes her off-court success to the media is a myth – don`t be so self-indulgent." 
 
The reporter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. 
 
Osaka has used her platform to call attention to mental health issues and she said at the news conference she felt supported by her fellow athletes. 
 
"The biggest eye opener was going to the Olympics and having other athletes come up to me and say they were really glad that I did what I did," she added. 
 
"I`m proud of what I did and I think that it was something that needed to be done." 
 
(Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles, Additional reporting by Amy Tennery, editing by Pritha Sarkar/Peter Rutherford) 
&nbsp;

Naomi Osaka briefly left a press conference in Cincinnati on Monday after she appeared to get upset with a line of questioning about her relationship with the media, leading her agent to describe a reporter as a "bully".

Naomi Osaka briefly left a press conference in Cincinnati on Monday after she appeared to get upset with a line of questioning about her relationship with the media, leading her agent to describe a reporter as a "bully". Osaka withdrew from the French Open earlier this year after being punished for refusing to do media conferences, saying her mental health was adversely impacted by certain lines of questioning. On Monday, a reporter from a Cincinnati newspaper asked the 23-year-old: “You`re not crazy about dealing with us, especially in this format. Yet you have a lot of outside interests that are served by having a media platform. How do you balance the two?” Osaka twice asked the reporter to clarify his question and turned down an offer from the moderator to ”move on to the next question” before giving a full reply. "Ever since I was younger, I have had a lot of media interest on me, and I think it`s because of my background as well," said Osaka, who is of Japanese-Haitian heritage but grew up mainly in the United States. "I can`t really help that there are some things that I tweet or some things that I say that kind of create a lot of news articles or things like that ... but I would also say I`m not really sure how to balance the two. Like I`m figuring it out at the same time as you are, I would say." When another reporter began to ask about her preparations for the summer hard-court season and her pledge to donate her prize money from this week’s Western & Southern Open to Haitian earthquake relief efforts, Osaka appeared to wipe away tears. The moderator called for a pause to the proceedings and Osaka left the room for a few minutes but returned to complete the news conference. Osaka’s French Open withdrawal not only led to her revealing that she has struggled to cope with depression for a number of years but it also prompted her to pull out from Roland Garros and Wimbledon for the sake of her mental well-being. After losing early at the Tokyo Games, where she was given the honour of lighting the Olympic flame at the opening ceremony, she said she struggled to cope with the huge pressure and expectation placed on her. Osaka`s agent, Stuart Duguid, condemned the reporter`s line of questioning on Monday in a statement provided to Reuters. "The bully at the Cincinnati Enquirer is the epitome of why player/media relations are so fraught right now," said Duguid. "Everyone on that Zoom will agree that his tone was all wrong and his sole purpose was to intimidate. Really appalling behaviour. "And this insinuation that Naomi owes her off-court success to the media is a myth – don`t be so self-indulgent." The reporter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Osaka has used her platform to call attention to mental health issues and she said at the news conference she felt supported by her fellow athletes. "The biggest eye opener was going to the Olympics and having other athletes come up to me and say they were really glad that I did what I did," she added. "I`m proud of what I did and I think that it was something that needed to be done." (Reporting by Rory Carroll in Los Angeles, Additional reporting by Amy Tennery, editing by Pritha Sarkar/Peter Rutherford)

Tennis: Tearful Naomi Osaka briefly leaves press conference

Tokyo Olympics 2020: Star athletes who failed to live up to expectations

According to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), cricketer&nbsp;Ben Stokes will take an "indefinite break" from all forms of cricket with immediate effect to "prioritise his mental wellbeing" and to rest his left index finger.

Managing director of England men's cricket, Ashley Giles, said: "Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be the mental health and welfare of all of our people. The demands on our athletes to prepare and play elite sport are relentless in a typical environment, but the ongoing pandemic has acutely compounded this."

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"Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing." 
 
We're all with you, Stokesy ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/6HmEzmCxvw">pic.twitter.com/6HmEzmCxvw</a>
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England's star World Cup all-rounder will be unavailable for the five-match series against India starting at Trent Bridge next week.

Stokes, 30, will be replaced in the squad by Somerset's Craig Overton, the ECB said.

"Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing," Giles said adding that spending significant amounts of time away from family with "minimal freedoms" has had a major impact on everyone's wellbeing in the past 16 months.

The development comes as American gymnast Simone Biles pulled out of two events at the Tokyo Olympics to protect her mental health.

Biles who pulled out abruptly from the vault said, "Mental health is more prevalent now in sports" starting a major debate about pressure in sports, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka had earlier pulled out of the French Open over a row on&nbsp;taking part in press conferences and later skipped Wimbledon&nbsp;while declaring that she suffered “long bouts of depression” since the 2018 US Open final.

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

According to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), cricketer Ben Stokes will take an "indefinite break" from all forms of cricket with immediate effect to "prioritise his mental wellbeing" and to rest his left index finger.

According to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), cricketer Ben Stokes will take an "indefinite break" from all forms of cricket with immediate effect to "prioritise his mental wellbeing" and to rest his left index finger. Managing director of England men's cricket, Ashley Giles, said: "Our primary focus has always been and will continue to be the mental health and welfare of all of our people. The demands on our athletes to prepare and play elite sport are relentless in a typical environment, but the ongoing pandemic has acutely compounded this." "Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing." We're all with you, Stokesy ❤️ pic.twitter.com/6HmEzmCxvw — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 30, 2021 × England's star World Cup all-rounder will be unavailable for the five-match series against India starting at Trent Bridge next week. Stokes, 30, will be replaced in the squad by Somerset's Craig Overton, the ECB said. "Ben has shown tremendous courage to open up about his feelings and wellbeing," Giles said adding that spending significant amounts of time away from family with "minimal freedoms" has had a major impact on everyone's wellbeing in the past 16 months. The development comes as American gymnast Simone Biles pulled out of two events at the Tokyo Olympics to protect her mental health. Biles who pulled out abruptly from the vault said, "Mental health is more prevalent now in sports" starting a major debate about pressure in sports, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka had earlier pulled out of the French Open over a row on taking part in press conferences and later skipped Wimbledon while declaring that she suffered “long bouts of depression” since the 2018 US Open final. (With inputs from Agencies)

Ben Stokes to take indefinite break from cricket to prioritise mental wellbeing: ECB

The World's top gymnast Simone Biles has withdrawn from her individual Olympic event to focus on mental health. Tennis No. 2 Naomi Osaka has spoken about the pressure of the Olympics after crashing out of the games. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why these women have done society a great service.

Gravitas: Simone Biles, Naomi Osaka put mental health on Olympic podium

Japan's&nbsp;tennis star&nbsp;Naomi&nbsp;Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round.&nbsp;

On day four of the Games, Czech Marketa Vondrousov crushed Osaka's dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal on home soil. The world number two was swiped aside 6-1, 6-4 by Vondrousova in an early shock.&nbsp;

Osaka was off to a poor start as she dropped serve in the opening game and then she was broken twice more as Vondrousova won the first set.

However, Osaka broke in the second set but relinquished the early advantage with a double fault. She&nbsp;saved two match points as she served to stay alive at 4-5 but Vondrousova emerged as a tough competitor and&nbsp;snatched the victory.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-manu-bhaker-saurabh-chaudhary-fail-to-qualify-for-mixed-team-10m-air-pistol-qualification-medal-rounds-400852">Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds</a>

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Daring to dream. 
 
🇨🇿 Marketa Vondrousova is the first player through to the women’s singles quarterfinals, upsetting Naomi Osaka in straight sets. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Olympics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Olympics</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tennis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tennis</a> • <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/wWVyxva7Kz">pic.twitter.com/wWVyxva7Kz</a>
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She had earlier said, "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world".

Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, was attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

Previously, Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty made shock exit in the first round.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-rupinder-pal-singh-strikes-twice-as-india-defeat-spain-3-0-in-pool-a-clash-400867">Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash</a>

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round.

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka has been eliminated from the women's tennis singles tournament at Tokyo Olympics 2020 on July 27 (Tuesday) after being defeated in the third round. On day four of the Games, Czech Marketa Vondrousov crushed Osaka's dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal on home soil. The world number two was swiped aside 6-1, 6-4 by Vondrousova in an early shock. Osaka was off to a poor start as she dropped serve in the opening game and then she was broken twice more as Vondrousova won the first set. However, Osaka broke in the second set but relinquished the early advantage with a double fault. She saved two match points as she served to stay alive at 4-5 but Vondrousova emerged as a tough competitor and snatched the victory. ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary fail to qualify for mixed-team 10m air pistol Qualification medal rounds Daring to dream. 🇨🇿 Marketa Vondrousova is the first player through to the women’s singles quarterfinals, upsetting Naomi Osaka in straight sets. #Olympics • #Tennis • #Tokyo2020 pic.twitter.com/wWVyxva7Kz — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) July 27, 2021 × She had earlier said, "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world". Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, was attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal. Previously, Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty made shock exit in the first round. Also Read: Tokyo Olympics: Rupinder Pal Singh strikes twice as India defeat Spain 3-0 in Pool A clash

Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka.

"How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but&nbsp;I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-japans-tennis-star-naomi-osaka-knocked-out-of-third-round-400902" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round</a>

Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today."

The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health.

Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony.

"I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the&nbsp;Olympics before and for the first year&nbsp;was a bit much," said Osaka.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-swimming-australias-mckeown-wins-100m-backstroke-gold-in-debut-olympics-400882" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics</a>

After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered.

"I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well.&nbsp;I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said.

"I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end.

Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka's dreams of home Olympic gold were crushed by a 6-1, 6-4 defeat to Marketa Vondrousova Tuesday as her return to action came to an abrupt end. Osaka, who lit the Olympic cauldron and was one of the faces of the Games, struggled in an error-strewn display that blew the draw wide open after the earlier exits of world number one Ashleigh Barty and third seed Aryna Sabalenka. "How disappointed am I? I mean, I'm disappointed in every loss, but I feel like this one s**ks more than the others," said the four-time Grand Slam winner. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka knocked out of third round Asked what went wrong, she replied: "Everything if you watch the match then you would probably see. I feel like there's a lot of things that I counted on that I couldn't rely on today." The third-round defeat follows a turbulent few months for Osaka, who abandoned her French Open campaign in May after refusing to attend press conferences, citing the need to preserve her mental health. Osaka also skipped Wimbledon, saying she had been battling depression and anxiety, before returning to Tokyo for her first Olympics, including her starring role at the opening ceremony. "I definitely feel like there was a lot of pressure for this. I think it's maybe because I haven't played in the Olympics before and for the first year was a bit much," said Osaka. ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: Swimming-Australia's McKeown wins 100m backstroke gold in debut Olympics After looking assured in the first two rounds after her eight-week hiatus, Osaka made a dreadful start under the centre court roof at a rain-hit Ariake Tennis Park and never recovered. "I've taken long breaks before and I've managed to do well. I'm not saying that I did bad right now, but I do know that my expectations were a lot higher," she said. "I feel like my attitude wasn't that great because I don't really know how to cope with that pressure so that's the best that I could have done in this situation.

Tokyo Olympics: 'My attitude wasn't great', says Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka after shock exit

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka said that it would mean a lot to her to win a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she cruised into the third round of the tennis tournament on July 26 (Monday). The four-time Grand Slam singles champion Osaka defeated Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic 6-3, 6-2.&nbsp;

After finishing the match, Osaka said "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world, and I honestly haven't played in a while so I'm trying to take it one match at a time. But all in all I'm just really happy to be here."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-indian-fencer-bhavani-devi-goes-down-fighting-on-games-debut-400669">Tokyo Olympics: Indian fencer Bhavani Devi goes down fighting on Games debut</a>

After the shock exit of Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty in the first round, Osaka is the highest-ranked player left in the women's draw.

It is worth noting that, Osaka took a two-month mental health break when she withdrew after the first round at the French Open this year. She had even skipped the mandatory press conferences.&nbsp;

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— Olympics (@Olympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/Olympics/status/1419513899280371712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Honestly I didn't feel pressured. For me, I felt more excitement, this was like a sense of duty, like something I wanted to accomplish," the tennis star added.&nbsp;

Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, is attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%202020:%20Britain's%20Adam%20Peaty%20wins%20100m%20breaststroke%20gold%20to%20defend%20Olympic%20title">Tokyo 2020: Britain's Adam Peaty wins 100m breaststroke gold to defend Olympic title</a>

During the second-round match, Osaka earned the first break to take a 5-3 lead against Golubic, she then saved a breakpoint in the following game as she took the first set. The second seed broke Golubic twice in a row at the start of the second set, finishing seven straight games before winning in 65 minutes.&nbsp;

Next, Osaka is slated to play Marketa Vondrousova or Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu for a place in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka said that it would mean a lot to her to win a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she cruised into the third round of the tennis tournament on July 26 (Monday).

Japan's tennis star Naomi Osaka said that it would mean a lot to her to win a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020 as she cruised into the third round of the tennis tournament on July 26 (Monday). The four-time Grand Slam singles champion Osaka defeated Switzerland's Viktorija Golubic 6-3, 6-2. After finishing the match, Osaka said "It definitely would mean a lot for me to win gold here, but I know it's a process. I know that these are the best players in the world, and I honestly haven't played in a while so I'm trying to take it one match at a time. But all in all I'm just really happy to be here." ALSO READ | Tokyo Olympics: Indian fencer Bhavani Devi goes down fighting on Games debut After the shock exit of Wimbledon champion Ashleigh Barty in the first round, Osaka is the highest-ranked player left in the women's draw. It is worth noting that, Osaka took a two-month mental health break when she withdrew after the first round at the French Open this year. She had even skipped the mandatory press conferences. We are 💯 along for the ride! https://t.co/vmi8u60qcX — Olympics (@Olympics) July 26, 2021 × "Honestly I didn't feel pressured. For me, I felt more excitement, this was like a sense of duty, like something I wanted to accomplish," the tennis star added. Osaka, who got the honour of lighting the Olympic cauldron during the opening ceremony, is attempting to become Japan's first Olympic tennis champion after Kei Nishikori, who won a bronze in the men's singles in 2016, beating Rafael Nadal. ALSO READ | Tokyo 2020: Britain's Adam Peaty wins 100m breaststroke gold to defend Olympic title During the second-round match, Osaka earned the first break to take a 5-3 lead against Golubic, she then saved a breakpoint in the following game as she took the first set. The second seed broke Golubic twice in a row at the start of the second set, finishing seven straight games before winning in 65 minutes. Next, Osaka is slated to play Marketa Vondrousova or Romania's Mihaela Buzarnescu for a place in the quarter-finals.

Tokyo Olympics: Tennis- 'Would mean a lot to win gold,' says Naomi Osaka as she enters third round

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago.

The Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive match since the French Open in May, when she withdrew after being fined for skipping the mandatory post-match press conferences on mental health reasons. She then also pulled out of Wimbledon.

Osaka said she appreciated taking time away from the court ahead of the Games in Tokyo, where she was chosen to light the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony on Friday night.

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"More than anything, I'm just focused on playing tennis," she said in her first appearance in front of media in more than two months.

"Playing the Olympics has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, so I feel like the break I took was very needed. But I feel definitely a little bit refreshed and happy again."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/Tokyo%20Olympics:%20Silver%20medallist%20Mirabai%20Chanu's%20special%20Olympic%20earrings%20stole%20the%20show">Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show</a>

Osaka's return to the game was hailed by the Japanese public, who showered her with praise following her win.

"(I admire) her powerful nature. Not just when she's playing, but she has her own principles which is wonderful," said 63-year-old office worker Yoshihiro Ohba.

Osaka was in ominous form against the 52nd-ranked Zheng, racing through the first set in just 32 minutes.

In the second set, the 23-year-old gained another early break but squandered two match points on the Chinese player's serve at 5-3.

Osaka went on to serve out the match to love.

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago.

Naomi Osaka said she was feeling refreshed and ready to play, following a dominant 6-1 6-4 win over China's Zheng Saisai in the opening round of the Tokyo Games - her first victory since taking a mental health break two months ago. The Japanese four-time Grand Slam champion had not played a competitive match since the French Open in May, when she withdrew after being fined for skipping the mandatory post-match press conferences on mental health reasons. She then also pulled out of Wimbledon. Osaka said she appreciated taking time away from the court ahead of the Games in Tokyo, where she was chosen to light the Olympic cauldron at the opening ceremony on Friday night. IN PICS: Tokyo Olympics 2020- From PV Sindhu to Deepika Kumari: Top Indian athletes to look out for! "More than anything, I'm just focused on playing tennis," she said in her first appearance in front of media in more than two months. "Playing the Olympics has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, so I feel like the break I took was very needed. But I feel definitely a little bit refreshed and happy again." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: Silver medallist Mirabai Chanu's special Olympic earrings stole the show Osaka's return to the game was hailed by the Japanese public, who showered her with praise following her win. "(I admire) her powerful nature. Not just when she's playing, but she has her own principles which is wonderful," said 63-year-old office worker Yoshihiro Ohba. Osaka was in ominous form against the 52nd-ranked Zheng, racing through the first set in just 32 minutes. In the second set, the 23-year-old gained another early break but squandered two match points on the Chinese player's serve at 5-3. Osaka went on to serve out the match to love.

Tokyo Olympics: Naomi Osaka refreshed and ready after first win since May

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday.&nbsp;

Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year.&nbsp;

Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/director-of-tokyo-olympics-opening-ceremony-ousted-over-past-comments-on-holocaust-399595" hreflang="en">Director of Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony ousted over past comments on Holocaust</a>

Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders.&nbsp;

Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition.&nbsp;

The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues.

Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th.&nbsp;

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a> tennis draws in full 👇
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Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany.&nbsp;

Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.

The first-round ties for Tokyo Olympics were revealed exactly 48 hours before players will take the court at Ariake Tennis Park, which starts on Saturday. Top-seeded Novak Djokovic will open against No.139 Hugo Dellien of Bolivia. The World No.1 is endeavoring to become the first man to finish a Golden Slam by winning every one of the four significant tennis competitions and an Olympic singles gold medal in the same year. Novak Djokovic won Wimbledon and won his 20th Grand Slam title, subsequent to opening the year by winning the Australian Open and French Open. ALSO READ: Director of Tokyo Olympics opening ceremony ousted over past comments on Holocaust Top-seeded Ashleigh Barty, the newly delegated Wimbledon women's champion will make her Olympic debut for Australia against Sara Sorribes Tormo of Spain. She will additionally be playing doubles with Storm Sanders. Naomi Osaka's first match in almost two months will come against 52nd-positioned Zheng Saisai of China in the opening round of the Olympic tennis competition. The second-seeded Osaka, who represents Japan and is one of the top names at the Games, is getting back to rivalry after she walked out of the French Open after being fined and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend mandatory post-match press conferences over mental health issues. Defending champion Olympic hero Andy Murray got an extreme opener against fifteenth-positioned Felix Auger Aliassime of Canada, who is seeded 10th. We're set. The #Tokyo2020 tennis draws in full 👇 — ITF (@ITFTennis) July 22, 2021 × Second-seeded Daniil Medvedev opens against Alexander Bublik of Kazakhstan and third-seeded Stefanos Tsitsipas meets Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany. Also, the two singles draws have created a line of captivating first-round matches, including a mouth-watering opener between defending bronze medallist Kei Nishikori and Andrey Rublev, Carla Suarez Navarro's starting against Tunisia's Ons Jabeur, and Wimbledon finalist Hubert Hurkacz taking on Hungary's Marton Fucsovics to name a few.

All you need to know about Tokyo Olympics tennis draws. Novak Djokovic to start against Hugo Dellien

Japan's Naomi Osaka, a self-confessed introvert who withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon on mental health grounds, has encouraged girls around the world to embrace what makes them different.

Osaka, 23, one of Japan's best gold medal prospects at the Tokyo Olympics, used her spot in the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) "Stronger Together" campaign to say the definition of an Olympian is broader than sometimes thought.

"People might think I'm quiet. Different. That I don't fit the box of what an Olympian should be," Osaka says.

The minute-long vignette begins with an overhead shot of Osaka about to serve on a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;court before jumping to footage of her dancing in Tokyo's central Shibuya district and laughing in front of a mirror with her sister.

Naomi&nbsp;Osaka signing a TV lens after a win and at a tournament representing Japan, depicts girls of all ages playing softball, rugby,&nbsp;tennis, soccer, and fencing, plus breakdancing.

"I want to inspire the girls out there watching right now. The ones that some people think are too different. Too quiet. Too something," said Osaka, who has opened up on her anxiety facing media interviews after intense matches.

"And if we don't fit that expectation of what people think we're supposed to be, good. That just means we're the ones who get to change it."

Japan's Naomi Osaka, a self-confessed introvert who withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon on mental health grounds, has encouraged girls around the world to embrace what makes them different.

Japan's Naomi Osaka, a self-confessed introvert who withdrew from the French Open and Wimbledon on mental health grounds, has encouraged girls around the world to embrace what makes them different. Osaka, 23, one of Japan's best gold medal prospects at the Tokyo Olympics, used her spot in the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) "Stronger Together" campaign to say the definition of an Olympian is broader than sometimes thought. "People might think I'm quiet. Different. That I don't fit the box of what an Olympian should be," Osaka says. The minute-long vignette begins with an overhead shot of Osaka about to serve on a tennis court before jumping to footage of her dancing in Tokyo's central Shibuya district and laughing in front of a mirror with her sister. Naomi Osaka signing a TV lens after a win and at a tournament representing Japan, depicts girls of all ages playing softball, rugby, tennis, soccer, and fencing, plus breakdancing. "I want to inspire the girls out there watching right now. The ones that some people think are too different. Too quiet. Too something," said Osaka, who has opened up on her anxiety facing media interviews after intense matches. "And if we don't fit that expectation of what people think we're supposed to be, good. That just means we're the ones who get to change it."

Tennis: Naomi Osaka exhorts girls to embrace being 'different'

Naomi Osaka as of late uncovered she has been suffering from depression since 2018 and managing social uneasiness that increased during media cooperations.&nbsp;

The four-time Grand Slam champion caused a tempest when she declared her choice to skip press conferences at Roland Garros, for which she was therefore fined. Naomi Osaka then, pulled out from the French Open, just as Wimbledon.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wimbledon-2021-im-a-different-player-this-year-than-i-have-been-in-previous-years-says-roger-federer-396120" hreflang="en">Wimbledon 2021: I'm a different player this year than I have been in previous years, says Roger Federer</a>

She was criticized by a few segments of the tennis fraternity including Boris Becker, for her stand regarding the media.&nbsp;In an interaction with Racquet Magazine, Naomi Osaka focused on how she isn't "shy" with regard to tennis.&nbsp;

World No. 2 called attention to how she has nothing to fear, given she can profess to be greater at the game than 99% of the populace even when she loses a match.&nbsp;

“Tennis is a thing that I’m least shy about. At the end of the day, even if I don’t win that match, I know that I have played better than 99 percent of the population, so there’s not anything to be shy about.”

Naomi Osaka is relied upon to initiate Japan's tennis challenge at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In a discussion with Japan's public telecaster NHK, Naomi Osaka uncovered her preparation for the Games is in progress and that she desires to be at her best on schedule for the event. She said: "I am preparing myself little by little so I can be at the top of my game for the Olympics."

During the discussion, she additionally said she would participate in press interviews at the Olympics while focusing on her psychological wellness.&nbsp;

Naomi Osaka, who shot to notoriety at 21 years old with her 2018 US Open victory, featured how she has had "bouts of anxiety" since accomplishing superstardom. She called attention to how her nervousness deteriorates in front of each enormous competition she partakes in.&nbsp;

"Since getting the attention of the world, I've always had bouts of anxiety. This is especially the case in the lead-up to big competitions."

Naomi Osaka as of late uncovered she has been suffering from depression since 2018 and managing social uneasiness that increased during media cooperations. The four-time Grand Slam champion caused a tempest when she declared her choice to skip press conferences at Roland Garros, for which she was therefore fined.

Naomi Osaka as of late uncovered she has been suffering from depression since 2018 and managing social uneasiness that increased during media cooperations. The four-time Grand Slam champion caused a tempest when she declared her choice to skip press conferences at Roland Garros, for which she was therefore fined. Naomi Osaka then, pulled out from the French Open, just as Wimbledon. ALSO READ: Wimbledon 2021: I'm a different player this year than I have been in previous years, says Roger Federer She was criticized by a few segments of the tennis fraternity including Boris Becker, for her stand regarding the media. In an interaction with Racquet Magazine, Naomi Osaka focused on how she isn't "shy" with regard to tennis. World No. 2 called attention to how she has nothing to fear, given she can profess to be greater at the game than 99% of the populace even when she loses a match. “Tennis is a thing that I’m least shy about. At the end of the day, even if I don’t win that match, I know that I have played better than 99 percent of the population, so there’s not anything to be shy about.” Naomi Osaka is relied upon to initiate Japan's tennis challenge at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In a discussion with Japan's public telecaster NHK, Naomi Osaka uncovered her preparation for the Games is in progress and that she desires to be at her best on schedule for the event. She said: "I am preparing myself little by little so I can be at the top of my game for the Olympics." During the discussion, she additionally said she would participate in press interviews at the Olympics while focusing on her psychological wellness. Naomi Osaka, who shot to notoriety at 21 years old with her 2018 US Open victory, featured how she has had "bouts of anxiety" since accomplishing superstardom. She called attention to how her nervousness deteriorates in front of each enormous competition she partakes in. "Since getting the attention of the world, I've always had bouts of anxiety. This is especially the case in the lead-up to big competitions."

Naomi Osaka opens up on struggle with shyness and anxiety

As one of Japan's best gold medal prospects, Naomi Osaka can expect the spotlight to shine brightly on her for the duration of her stay at the Tokyo Olympics.

There is, however, one big problem with that scenario. The soft-spoken and self-confessed introvert does not particularly like being in the spotlight - hence how she copes with the intense pressure and all the fanfare that will no doubt surround her while she competes at a home Olympics remains to be seen.

The 23-year-old has won a Grand Slam title every year since 2018 and gained accolades for her engaging personality and forthrightness on issues such as police brutality and racial inequality.

But Osaka has also been open about her struggles with depression and anxiety. She withdrew from this year's French Open amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament to protect her mental health.

The pressure will only grow stronger as Osaka makes her Olympic debut in Tokyo, where she is expected to serve not only as of the Games' ambassador but also shoulder hopes of winning Japan's first-ever gold medal in&nbsp;tennis.

The event is being played on hard court, the same surface where Osaka won all four of her majors, but she could face stiff competition from top-ranked Australian Ash Barty or big-hitting Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus.

In the men's game, Osaka's compatriot Kei Nishikori, who won the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, will similarly look to make a splash at home after several struggles with injury.

Nishikori could be joined by world number one Novak Djokovic and 20-time men's slam champion Roger Federer, both of whom are still searching for their maiden gold in singles - the only major honor still missing from their collections.

Britain's 2012 and 2016 Olympic champion Andy Murray will look to become the first player to win singles gold three times, though his form remains in question after a long hiatus due to injury.

The tournament is expected to be marked by the absence of major stars amid heightened pandemic restrictions.

Sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each, will not be competing, while Monica Puig, who won Puerto Rico's first-ever gold in Rio, withdrew after undergoing shoulder surgery.

Spain's two-time gold medalist Rafa Nadal has also pulled out, along with U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem, Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka, and Simona Halep of Romania.

As one of Japan's best gold medal prospects, Naomi Osaka can expect the spotlight to shine brightly on her for the duration of her stay at the Tokyo Olympics. There is, however, one big problem with that scenario.

As one of Japan's best gold medal prospects, Naomi Osaka can expect the spotlight to shine brightly on her for the duration of her stay at the Tokyo Olympics. There is, however, one big problem with that scenario. The soft-spoken and self-confessed introvert does not particularly like being in the spotlight - hence how she copes with the intense pressure and all the fanfare that will no doubt surround her while she competes at a home Olympics remains to be seen. The 23-year-old has won a Grand Slam title every year since 2018 and gained accolades for her engaging personality and forthrightness on issues such as police brutality and racial inequality. But Osaka has also been open about her struggles with depression and anxiety. She withdrew from this year's French Open amid controversy over her decision to skip all press conferences at the tournament to protect her mental health. The pressure will only grow stronger as Osaka makes her Olympic debut in Tokyo, where she is expected to serve not only as of the Games' ambassador but also shoulder hopes of winning Japan's first-ever gold medal in tennis. The event is being played on hard court, the same surface where Osaka won all four of her majors, but she could face stiff competition from top-ranked Australian Ash Barty or big-hitting Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus. In the men's game, Osaka's compatriot Kei Nishikori, who won the bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, will similarly look to make a splash at home after several struggles with injury. Nishikori could be joined by world number one Novak Djokovic and 20-time men's slam champion Roger Federer, both of whom are still searching for their maiden gold in singles - the only major honor still missing from their collections. Britain's 2012 and 2016 Olympic champion Andy Murray will look to become the first player to win singles gold three times, though his form remains in question after a long hiatus due to injury. The tournament is expected to be marked by the absence of major stars amid heightened pandemic restrictions. Sisters Serena and Venus Williams, who have four gold medals each, will not be competing, while Monica Puig, who won Puerto Rico's first-ever gold in Rio, withdrew after undergoing shoulder surgery. Spain's two-time gold medalist Rafa Nadal has also pulled out, along with U.S. Open champion Dominic Thiem, Switzerland's Stan Wawrinka, and Simona Halep of Romania.

Tennis: No escape from spotlight for Naomi Osaka at Tokyo Games

French Open organizers defended their handling of the Naomi Osaka situation on Sunday but accepted that the governing bodies need to do better on mental health issues following the Japanese player's exit from the Grand Slam over her media boycott.

Osaka announced in the build-up to the French Open that she would not attend the mandatory post-match press conferences for players, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being.

The four-time Grand Slam winner stuck to her stance and did not face the media after her opening win, leading to a $15,000 fine and a strongly-worded letter from the board of the four Grand Slam tournaments warning her of possible expulsion from Roland Garros and future majors.

Japan's Osaka ended the stand-off with the French&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;federation (FFT) by withdrawing from the claycourt major after winning her first-round match, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

FFT director-general Amelie Oudea-Castera said the organizers tried to reach out to Osaka several times without success and the statement from the four majors was to just remind her of the consequences of her decision.

"On the $15,000 fine, you noticed we did not want to put that fine at the maximum. Maximum was 20," Oudea-Castera told reporters. "On purpose, we only wanted to be at 15 because we wanted to send a message that we wouldn't go to default right away.

"I think we really cared for her. We really tried to engage. We were pragmatic in the way we handled the progressive approach to sanctions. It was a very sensitive and difficult situation, but we believe we really treated that with respect, with care.

"And yes, of course, on mental health, we can do better. This is part of the roadmap we have with the other slams. We will take the initiative on the matter together."

The world number two's withdrawal, however, subjected the four Grand Slams to criticism from fans and pundits for their handling of the matter.

FFT president Gilles Moreton said they "had to do it."

"We need to have equity between all the players ... I think we did it the right way," he said.

"Now we want only one thing: she will recover as soon as possible and maybe she will be in very good shape and ready to talk to you (media) at Wimbledon. We'll be very happy about that."

French Open organizers defended their handling of the Naomi Osaka situation on Sunday but accepted that the governing bodies need to do better on mental health issues following the Japanese player's exit from the Grand Slam over her media boycott.

French Open organizers defended their handling of the Naomi Osaka situation on Sunday but accepted that the governing bodies need to do better on mental health issues following the Japanese player's exit from the Grand Slam over her media boycott. Osaka announced in the build-up to the French Open that she would not attend the mandatory post-match press conferences for players, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being. The four-time Grand Slam winner stuck to her stance and did not face the media after her opening win, leading to a $15,000 fine and a strongly-worded letter from the board of the four Grand Slam tournaments warning her of possible expulsion from Roland Garros and future majors. Japan's Osaka ended the stand-off with the French tennis federation (FFT) by withdrawing from the claycourt major after winning her first-round match, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years. FFT director-general Amelie Oudea-Castera said the organizers tried to reach out to Osaka several times without success and the statement from the four majors was to just remind her of the consequences of her decision. "On the $15,000 fine, you noticed we did not want to put that fine at the maximum. Maximum was 20," Oudea-Castera told reporters. "On purpose, we only wanted to be at 15 because we wanted to send a message that we wouldn't go to default right away. "I think we really cared for her. We really tried to engage. We were pragmatic in the way we handled the progressive approach to sanctions. It was a very sensitive and difficult situation, but we believe we really treated that with respect, with care. "And yes, of course, on mental health, we can do better. This is part of the roadmap we have with the other slams. We will take the initiative on the matter together." The world number two's withdrawal, however, subjected the four Grand Slams to criticism from fans and pundits for their handling of the matter. FFT president Gilles Moreton said they "had to do it." "We need to have equity between all the players ... I think we did it the right way," he said. "Now we want only one thing: she will recover as soon as possible and maybe she will be in very good shape and ready to talk to you (media) at Wimbledon. We'll be very happy about that."

French Open: Organisers defend Naomi Osaka handling, say 'can do better' on mental health

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month.

The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds.

"We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break," Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14.

Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month.

The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month.

Naomi Osaka pulled out of next week's Berlin WTA 5000 grasscourt tournament on Monday, raising doubts about the four-times Grand Slam champion's participation at Wimbledon later this month. The decision comes after Japanese world number two Osaka pulled out of the French Open last week on mental health grounds. "We have received notification Naomi Osaka cannot start in Berlin. After consulting her management, she will take a break," Berlin event organisers said in a statement ahead of the tournament which begins on June 14. Osaka has not revealed when she plans to play next, casting doubt on her participation at Wimbledon, which starts on June 28, and the Tokyo Olympics next month. The 23-year-old released a short social media statement on Saturday to thank her fans for their support over her decision to withdraw from the French Open following a dispute over her refusal to attend press conferences.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka withdraws from pre-Wimbledon event in Berlin

Naomi Osaka thanks people for their support with a short message on her Instagram page.

"Just want to say thank you for all the love. Haven't been on my phone much but I wanted to hop on here and tell you all that I really appreciate it."

Naomi Osaka on Saturday thanked her fans for their support after the four-time Grand Slam champion earlier this week withdrew from the French Open, citing mental health issues.

The Japanese player initially said she would not attend the tournament's mandatory post-match press conferences, which she said put undue pressure on players.

The 23-year-old world No. 2 later announced she would not compete at all and revealed she had been suffering from bouts of depression for several years, leading to an outpouring of support.

"Just want to thank you for all the love," she wrote in an Instagram story.

"Haven't been on my phone much but I wanted to hop on here and tell you all that I really appreciate it," she said.

The International&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation has promised a comprehensive review on how players and media interact during tournaments, saying it takes mental health issues extremely seriously.

It is unclear whether Osaka will return to the game in time for Wimbledon, which begins later this month.

Osaka is one of the best-known and most marketable players in the game, and in the past has used her position to call attention to issues of police violence and racial inequality.

Naomi Osaka thanks people for their support with a short message on her Instagram page. "Just want to say thank you for all the love. Haven't been on my phone much but I wanted to hop on here and tell you all that I really appreciate it.

Naomi Osaka thanks people for their support with a short message on her Instagram page. "Just want to say thank you for all the love. Haven't been on my phone much but I wanted to hop on here and tell you all that I really appreciate it." Naomi Osaka on Saturday thanked her fans for their support after the four-time Grand Slam champion earlier this week withdrew from the French Open, citing mental health issues. The Japanese player initially said she would not attend the tournament's mandatory post-match press conferences, which she said put undue pressure on players. The 23-year-old world No. 2 later announced she would not compete at all and revealed she had been suffering from bouts of depression for several years, leading to an outpouring of support. "Just want to thank you for all the love," she wrote in an Instagram story. "Haven't been on my phone much but I wanted to hop on here and tell you all that I really appreciate it," she said. The International Tennis Federation has promised a comprehensive review on how players and media interact during tournaments, saying it takes mental health issues extremely seriously. It is unclear whether Osaka will return to the game in time for Wimbledon, which begins later this month. Osaka is one of the best-known and most marketable players in the game, and in the past has used her position to call attention to issues of police violence and racial inequality.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka thanks fans for support with short social media message

Two of&nbsp;tennis's governing bodies have promised to review the impact of the press on players' mental health after Naomi Osaka stunned the sporting world by walking out of the French Open to place the issue firmly in the spotlight.

Japan's Osaka left the claycourt Grand Slam on Monday after refusing to attend the mandatory post-match press conferences and revealing she had been suffering from bouts of depression for three years.

Where&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;goes next was no clearer four days after Osaka's exit although it is almost inconceivable that it will be business as usual following a global debate, which has centered on the Japanese player's right not to attend press conferences.

The same Grand Slam Committee which had threatened Osaka with fines and expulsion when the 23-year-old said she would not face the media after matches joined the outpouring of support for her mental health struggles following her exit.

Roland Garros organizers, the French&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;federation (FFT), said no changes will be made regarding players' press responsibilities for the ongoing edition of the claycourt Grand Slam.

Yet the global governing body, the International&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation (ITF), has promised a comprehensive review.

"Naomi Osaka's recent statements have shone a light on mental health issues, a matter that we all take extremely seriously," the ITF told Reuters.

"Tennis&nbsp;is aligned and will work together, with input from players and media amongst others, to review what needs to evolve across the sport as a whole.

"It's in all our interests to ensure that we continue to provide an environment that enables all stakeholders to do their job to their best ability, without impacting their health, and for the good of the sport."

Press conferences are obligatory when requested by the media at Grand Slams and even the smallest tournaments allow access to players before the start and if requested on match days, win or lose.

That could change, on the women's tour at least, after Osaka said that expecting players to answer questions after defeats amounted to "kicking a person while they're down".

The Women's&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Association (WTA) said it would also be launching a review.

"Similar to how we review various areas and processes within the tour, the WTA is committed to taking a comprehensive and holistic review of post-match press," the WTA said in a statement to Reuters.

Wimbledon organizers, who will host the grasscourt Grand Slam in three weeks, said changes would take time.

"Everyone has expressed a desire to work together to create meaningful improvements, so we'll give some space for that to begin," said an All England Club spokeswoman.

While a mental strain exemption could eventually find its place alongside physical injuries as reasons not to face the media at Grand Slams, press conferences have continued in Paris this week.

Many players have expressed support for Osaka in her battle with mental health issues but most have said they accept media duties as part of the job.

Karolina Muchova compared it to undergoing anti-doping tests and her fellow Czech Karolina Pliskova faced the media on Thursday after bowing out in the second round.

"I do press conferences basically after my match, no matter what is happening, if I win or if I lose," the former world number one said.

"Of course there are easier days, there are tougher days, but I think you should handle that."

Two of tennis's governing bodies have promised to review the impact of the press on players' mental health after Naomi Osaka stunned the sporting world by walking out of the French Open to place the issue firmly in the spotlight.

Two of tennis's governing bodies have promised to review the impact of the press on players' mental health after Naomi Osaka stunned the sporting world by walking out of the French Open to place the issue firmly in the spotlight. Japan's Osaka left the claycourt Grand Slam on Monday after refusing to attend the mandatory post-match press conferences and revealing she had been suffering from bouts of depression for three years. Where tennis goes next was no clearer four days after Osaka's exit although it is almost inconceivable that it will be business as usual following a global debate, which has centered on the Japanese player's right not to attend press conferences. The same Grand Slam Committee which had threatened Osaka with fines and expulsion when the 23-year-old said she would not face the media after matches joined the outpouring of support for her mental health struggles following her exit. Roland Garros organizers, the French tennis federation (FFT), said no changes will be made regarding players' press responsibilities for the ongoing edition of the claycourt Grand Slam. Yet the global governing body, the International Tennis Federation (ITF), has promised a comprehensive review. "Naomi Osaka's recent statements have shone a light on mental health issues, a matter that we all take extremely seriously," the ITF told Reuters. "Tennis is aligned and will work together, with input from players and media amongst others, to review what needs to evolve across the sport as a whole. "It's in all our interests to ensure that we continue to provide an environment that enables all stakeholders to do their job to their best ability, without impacting their health, and for the good of the sport." Press conferences are obligatory when requested by the media at Grand Slams and even the smallest tournaments allow access to players before the start and if requested on match days, win or lose. That could change, on the women's tour at least, after Osaka said that expecting players to answer questions after defeats amounted to "kicking a person while they're down". The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) said it would also be launching a review. "Similar to how we review various areas and processes within the tour, the WTA is committed to taking a comprehensive and holistic review of post-match press," the WTA said in a statement to Reuters. Wimbledon organizers, who will host the grasscourt Grand Slam in three weeks, said changes would take time. "Everyone has expressed a desire to work together to create meaningful improvements, so we'll give some space for that to begin," said an All England Club spokeswoman. While a mental strain exemption could eventually find its place alongside physical injuries as reasons not to face the media at Grand Slams, press conferences have continued in Paris this week. Many players have expressed support for Osaka in her battle with mental health issues but most have said they accept media duties as part of the job. Karolina Muchova compared it to undergoing anti-doping tests and her fellow Czech Karolina Pliskova faced the media on Thursday after bowing out in the second round. "I do press conferences basically after my match, no matter what is happening, if I win or if I lose," the former world number one said. "Of course there are easier days, there are tougher days, but I think you should handle that."

Tennis: Reviews promised but no changes yet after Naomi Osaka exit

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety.

"I support her. I think she was very brave to do that. I'm really sorry that she is going through painful times and suffering mentally, is what I have heard," said Djokovic after reaching the second round of the tournament.

"This was, I must say, a very bold decision from her side.&nbsp;

"If she needs to take time and reflect and just recharge that's what she needed to do, and I respect it fully. I hope that she'll come back stronger."

World number two and four-time major winner Osaka pulled out on Monday after she was fined $15,000 and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend press conferences.

Osaka claimed traditional post-match media conferences are akin to "kicking people when they're down" and were having a detrimental effect on her mental health.

She revealed she had been suffering bouts of depression since her 2018 US Open title breakthrough as well as anxiety attacks.

"There's a sense of voyeurism around how it presently works," wrote Peter Terry, a professor of psychology at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia on theconversation.com.

"Osaka is a young, introverted, anxious person. We should by now understand that sports stars are not super human, that they have the same doubts and mental health issues as everyone else."

Djokovic kicked off his campaign for a 19th Grand Slam title with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 win over Tennys Sandgren inside an empty stadium.

Rafael Nadal, the 13-time champion and chasing a record-setting 21st major, defeated Alexei Popyrin of Australia 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3).

The Spaniard now has 101 wins against just two losses at the tournament.

Djokovic saw off world number 66 Sandgren in straight sets for his fourth win in four meetings with the American.

However, a French government Covid-19 curfew of 9pm meant that his evening session match at the 15,000-capacity Court Philippe Chatrier was played out to rows of empty seats.

"It was strange, honestly, but I'm also honoured to be the first men's match, night session, in the history of this tournament," said Djokovic.

Top seed Djokovic, the champion in Paris in 2016, is attempting to become the first man in more than 50 years to win all four Slams multiple times.

The Serb fired 33 winners and broke serve five times as he set up a clash with Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay for a place in the last 32.

Nadal has now won 26 sets in a row at the tournament.

<h2>- 'Lucky to win' -</h2>

"I was lucky to win that third set, I don't know how (I did). The beginning of the match had been very tough too," said Nadal, who was 2-5 down in the third set, saving two set points.

Up next is fellow 34-year-old Richard Gasquet.

The pair first played one another when they were children.&nbsp;As professionals, Nadal leads 16-0.

Djokovic and Nadal are seeded to meet in the semi-finals.

One dangerman for Nadal and Djokovic was removed from the draw when seventh seed Andrey Rublev lost 6-3, 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 3-6, 6-4 to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff.

In-form Russian Rublev had defeated Nadal en route to the Monte Carlo Masters final.

Rublev joins fourth seed and two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem in falling at the first hurdle.

<h2>- Barty not 100% -</h2>

World number one Ashleigh Barty marked her return to Paris for the first time since her 2019 title triumph by beating American left-hander Bernarda Pera 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 but admitted she was fighting a hip problem.

"I'm not going to hide behind the fact I'm not quite 100%," said the 25-year-old.

Italian 37-year-old Andreas Seppi, playing in his 63rd successive Grand Slam, stunned 20th seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 7-6 (10/8), 4-6, 6-4.

Venus Williams, playing the tournament for the 24th time and a runner-up 19 years ago, saw her 89th Grand Slam end as Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova eased to a 6-3, 6-1 win.

Carla Suarez Navarro came close to winning her first match back after recovering from cancer, but bowed out 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at the hands of Sloane Stephens.

Tuesday was a miserable day for home hopes as only three of 18 French men made the second round, the country's worst performance since the dawn of the Open era in 1968.

Ironically, a Roland Garros press conference led to the injury-enforced withdrawal of two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who pulled out after hurting her ankle after finishing her media commitments.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety.

World number one Novak Djokovic on Tuesday hailed Naomi Osaka as "brave and bold" for withdrawing from the French Open after revealing her struggles with depression and anxiety. "I support her. I think she was very brave to do that. I'm really sorry that she is going through painful times and suffering mentally, is what I have heard," said Djokovic after reaching the second round of the tournament. "This was, I must say, a very bold decision from her side. "If she needs to take time and reflect and just recharge that's what she needed to do, and I respect it fully. I hope that she'll come back stronger." World number two and four-time major winner Osaka pulled out on Monday after she was fined $15,000 and threatened with disqualification for refusing to attend press conferences. Osaka claimed traditional post-match media conferences are akin to "kicking people when they're down" and were having a detrimental effect on her mental health. She revealed she had been suffering bouts of depression since her 2018 US Open title breakthrough as well as anxiety attacks. "There's a sense of voyeurism around how it presently works," wrote Peter Terry, a professor of psychology at the University of Southern Queensland in Australia on theconversation.com. "Osaka is a young, introverted, anxious person. We should by now understand that sports stars are not super human, that they have the same doubts and mental health issues as everyone else." Djokovic kicked off his campaign for a 19th Grand Slam title with a 6-2, 6-4, 6-2 win over Tennys Sandgren inside an empty stadium. Rafael Nadal, the 13-time champion and chasing a record-setting 21st major, defeated Alexei Popyrin of Australia 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/3). The Spaniard now has 101 wins against just two losses at the tournament. Djokovic saw off world number 66 Sandgren in straight sets for his fourth win in four meetings with the American. However, a French government Covid-19 curfew of 9pm meant that his evening session match at the 15,000-capacity Court Philippe Chatrier was played out to rows of empty seats. "It was strange, honestly, but I'm also honoured to be the first men's match, night session, in the history of this tournament," said Djokovic. Top seed Djokovic, the champion in Paris in 2016, is attempting to become the first man in more than 50 years to win all four Slams multiple times. The Serb fired 33 winners and broke serve five times as he set up a clash with Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay for a place in the last 32. Nadal has now won 26 sets in a row at the tournament. - 'Lucky to win' - "I was lucky to win that third set, I don't know how (I did). The beginning of the match had been very tough too," said Nadal, who was 2-5 down in the third set, saving two set points. Up next is fellow 34-year-old Richard Gasquet. The pair first played one another when they were children. As professionals, Nadal leads 16-0. Djokovic and Nadal are seeded to meet in the semi-finals. One dangerman for Nadal and Djokovic was removed from the draw when seventh seed Andrey Rublev lost 6-3, 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 3-6, 6-4 to Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff. In-form Russian Rublev had defeated Nadal en route to the Monte Carlo Masters final. Rublev joins fourth seed and two-time runner-up Dominic Thiem in falling at the first hurdle. - Barty not 100% - World number one Ashleigh Barty marked her return to Paris for the first time since her 2019 title triumph by beating American left-hander Bernarda Pera 6-4, 3-6, 6-2 but admitted she was fighting a hip problem. "I'm not going to hide behind the fact I'm not quite 100%," said the 25-year-old. Italian 37-year-old Andreas Seppi, playing in his 63rd successive Grand Slam, stunned 20th seeded Felix Auger-Aliassime 6-3, 7-6 (10/8), 4-6, 6-4. Venus Williams, playing the tournament for the 24th time and a runner-up 19 years ago, saw her 89th Grand Slam end as Russia's Ekaterina Alexandrova eased to a 6-3, 6-1 win. Carla Suarez Navarro came close to winning her first match back after recovering from cancer, but bowed out 3-6, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 at the hands of Sloane Stephens. Tuesday was a miserable day for home hopes as only three of 18 French men made the second round, the country's worst performance since the dawn of the Open era in 1968. Ironically, a Roland Garros press conference led to the injury-enforced withdrawal of two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova who pulled out after hurting her ankle after finishing her media commitments.

Tennis: Djokovic hails 'bold, brave' Osaka as Nadal, Barty cruise at French Open

Serena Williams offered her support to Naomi Osaka on Monday (May 31) after the Japanese player's decision to withdraw from the French Open in the wake of her boycott of press conferences.

In an earlier statement, Osaka said she did not want her stance to become a distraction and said that she had been dealing with mental health issues since 2018.

Williams, 39, was inevitably asked for her reaction to Osaka's decision following her first-round win over Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu.

"The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug because I know what it's like. Like I said, I've been in those positions.

"We have different personalities, and people are different. Not everyone is the same. I'm thick (skinned). Other people are thin. Everyone is different and everyone handles things differently.

"You just have to let her handle it the way she wants to, in the best way she thinks she can, and that's the only thing I can say. I think she's doing the best that she can."

Williams said it was important for players to have someone to use as a "sounding board" in tough times.

"You have to be able to make an effort and say, I need help with A, B, C, and D, and talk to someone," she said.

"Whether it's someone at the WTA or whether it's someone in your life. Maybe it's someone that you just talk to on a weekly basis. I've been in that position, too.

"I've definitely had opportunities to talk to people, kind of get things off my chest that I can't necessarily talk to anyone in my family or anyone that I know."

Serena Williams offered her support to Naomi Osaka on Monday (May 31) after the Japanese player's decision to withdraw from the French Open in the wake of her boycott of press conferences.

Serena Williams offered her support to Naomi Osaka on Monday (May 31) after the Japanese player's decision to withdraw from the French Open in the wake of her boycott of press conferences. In an earlier statement, Osaka said she did not want her stance to become a distraction and said that she had been dealing with mental health issues since 2018. Williams, 39, was inevitably asked for her reaction to Osaka's decision following her first-round win over Romanian Irina-Camelia Begu. "The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug because I know what it's like. Like I said, I've been in those positions. "We have different personalities, and people are different. Not everyone is the same. I'm thick (skinned). Other people are thin. Everyone is different and everyone handles things differently. "You just have to let her handle it the way she wants to, in the best way she thinks she can, and that's the only thing I can say. I think she's doing the best that she can." Williams said it was important for players to have someone to use as a "sounding board" in tough times. "You have to be able to make an effort and say, I need help with A, B, C, and D, and talk to someone," she said. "Whether it's someone at the WTA or whether it's someone in your life. Maybe it's someone that you just talk to on a weekly basis. I've been in that position, too. "I've definitely had opportunities to talk to people, kind of get things off my chest that I can't necessarily talk to anyone in my family or anyone that I know."

Tennis: Serena Williams offers support to Naomi Osaka after French Open withdrawal

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

Osaka said in the build-up to the tournament that she would not attend the obligatory press conferences for players after matches, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being.

The four-time Grand Slam champion made good on her threat on Sunday when, after winning her first-round match, she did not hold a press conference.

She was fined $15,000 by the Roland Garros referee, and Grand Slam organizers later issued a strongly worded statement warning of possible expulsion from the French Open and future majors if she failed to change her stance.

On Monday, world No. 2 decided to take matters into her own hands to end the stand-off.

"This isn't a situation I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago," the 23-year-old Osaka said on Twitter.

"I think now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;going on in Paris.

"I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer."

Osaka, one of the biggest names in women's sport, went on to say she had suffered from depression since 2018.

"The truth is that I have suffered long bouts of depression since the U.S. Open in 2018 and I have had a really hard time coping with that," she said.

"Anyone that knows me knows I'm introverted, and anyone that has seen me at the tournaments will notice that I'm often wearing headphones as that helps dull my social anxiety."

The French&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation (FFT), organizers of the tournament, called her withdrawal "unfortunate."

Reading from a prepared statement at a news conference, FFT president Gilles Moretton said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka... we wish her the best and quickest possible recovery, and we look forward to having Naomi at our tournament next year. He added that the major&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;bodies were committed to athletes' well-being and improving their tournament experience, including their interaction with the media.

The Women's&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Association (WTA) said mental health was one of the highest priorities of the organization. "We remain here to support and assist Naomi in any way possible and we hope to see her back on the court soon," it said in a statement.

After beating Serena Williams to claim her first major at the 2018 U.S. Open, Osaka was booed by the crowd during the presentation ceremony as her victory was overshadowed by the American's outburst following a row with the umpire.

Osaka said that since then, she has struggled with being in the spotlight. On Monday, Osaka said she suffers "huge waves of anxiety" before speaking to the world's media.

Williams offered support to Osaka.

"The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug," the 39-year-old American said after her first-round win. "Because I know what it's like. I've been in those positions."

American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open and finished runner-up at Roland Garros last year, said dealing with the media demands of elite&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;was "definitely not easy" but it is what players "signed up for."

"There are expectations from the outside, sponsors, and everyone. You just have to somehow manage it. You have to have a good team around you who support you," the American said.

Osaka, who according to sports business website Sportico earned $55.2 million over the past 12 months, added that she would take some time away from&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;and hoped later to meet the sport's organizers to improve the system.

"I wrote privately to the tournament apologizing and saying that I would be more than happy to speak with them after the tournament as the slams are intense," Osaka said.

"I'm gonna take some time away from the court now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press, and fans."

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the tennis world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years.

Japan's Naomi Osaka stunned the tennis world on Monday by withdrawing from the French Open after deciding to boycott post-match media duties, explaining she had been suffering from depression for almost three years. Osaka said in the build-up to the tournament that she would not attend the obligatory press conferences for players after matches, saying the questioning by journalists impacts her mental well-being. The four-time Grand Slam champion made good on her threat on Sunday when, after winning her first-round match, she did not hold a press conference. She was fined $15,000 by the Roland Garros referee, and Grand Slam organizers later issued a strongly worded statement warning of possible expulsion from the French Open and future majors if she failed to change her stance. On Monday, world No. 2 decided to take matters into her own hands to end the stand-off. "This isn't a situation I ever imagined or intended when I posted a few days ago," the 23-year-old Osaka said on Twitter. "I think now the best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris. "I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer." Osaka, one of the biggest names in women's sport, went on to say she had suffered from depression since 2018. "The truth is that I have suffered long bouts of depression since the U.S. Open in 2018 and I have had a really hard time coping with that," she said. "Anyone that knows me knows I'm introverted, and anyone that has seen me at the tournaments will notice that I'm often wearing headphones as that helps dull my social anxiety." The French Tennis Federation (FFT), organizers of the tournament, called her withdrawal "unfortunate." Reading from a prepared statement at a news conference, FFT president Gilles Moretton said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka... we wish her the best and quickest possible recovery, and we look forward to having Naomi at our tournament next year. He added that the major tennis bodies were committed to athletes' well-being and improving their tournament experience, including their interaction with the media. The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) said mental health was one of the highest priorities of the organization. "We remain here to support and assist Naomi in any way possible and we hope to see her back on the court soon," it said in a statement. After beating Serena Williams to claim her first major at the 2018 U.S. Open, Osaka was booed by the crowd during the presentation ceremony as her victory was overshadowed by the American's outburst following a row with the umpire. Osaka said that since then, she has struggled with being in the spotlight. On Monday, Osaka said she suffers "huge waves of anxiety" before speaking to the world's media. Williams offered support to Osaka. "The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi. I feel like I wish I could give her a hug," the 39-year-old American said after her first-round win. "Because I know what it's like. I've been in those positions." American Sofia Kenin, who won the Australian Open and finished runner-up at Roland Garros last year, said dealing with the media demands of elite tennis was "definitely not easy" but it is what players "signed up for." "There are expectations from the outside, sponsors, and everyone. You just have to somehow manage it. You have to have a good team around you who support you," the American said. Osaka, who according to sports business website Sportico earned $55.2 million over the past 12 months, added that she would take some time away from tennis and hoped later to meet the sport's organizers to improve the system. "I wrote privately to the tournament apologizing and saying that I would be more than happy to speak with them after the tournament as the slams are intense," Osaka said. "I'm gonna take some time away from the court now, but when the time is right, I really want to work with the tour to discuss ways we can make things better for the players, press, and fans."

Tennis: Naomi Osaka withdraws from French Open in wake of row over media boycott

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court".

"The best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris," the world number two wrote on Twitter.

The 23-year-old Japanese star was fined $15,000 on Sunday and threatened with disqualification after she refused to carry out a mandatory news conference following her first round win.

She claimed on the eve of Roland Garros that such post-match inquests were akin to "kicking people when they are down" and that they had a detrimental effect on her mental health.

"I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer," the four-time Grand Slam title winner said in her statement.

"The truth is I have suffered bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018 (when she beat Serena Williams for her first Slam title) and I have had a really hard time coping with that."

She added: "In Paris, I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences.

"I announced it preemptively because I do feel like the rules are quite out-dated in parts and I wanted to highlight that.

"I am going to take some time away from the court now."

Osaka said she has apologised to organisers over the affair which has dominated the early stages of the French Open ever since she warned last week that she would not carry out any media activity.

Serena Williams said she sympathised with Osaka.

"I feel for her, I wish could give her a hug," said the 23-time major winner after making the second round.

"We all have different personalities. I am thick, others are thin. It's best to let her handle it the way she wants to."

Martina Navratilova said she fully supported Osaka's decision.

"I truly hope she will be ok. As athletes we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental &amp; emotional aspect gets short shrift," tweeted Navratilova.

"This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi - we are all pulling for you!"

French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton had described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error".

On Monday, he said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka. The outcome of Naomi withdrawing from Roland Garros is unfortunate."

"We wish her the best and the quickest possible recovery," Moretton added as he read out a prepared statement without taking questions.

"We look forward to having Naomi in our tournament next year."

<h2>- Highest earning female athlete -</h2>

Osaka is the world's highest earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020.

She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open.&nbsp;

She has gone on to win another title in New York as well as two Australian Opens.

Earlier Monday, Osaka's coach said she wanted to use her superstar status to force change in the sport.

"Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

"In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press.

"So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day."

Mari Osaka, a former player herself, said her sister had been struggling to cope in the run-up to Paris.

"Naomi mentioned to me before the tournament that a family member had come up to her and remarked that she's bad on clay," Mari wrote on Reddit.

"At every press conference she's told she has a bad record on clay.

<h2>- 'Not OK mentally' -</h2>

"When she lost in Rome, she was not OK mentally. She was completely shattered and I think everyone's remarks and opinions have gotten to her head."

Teenage American player Coco Gauff tweeted her support for Osaka.

"Stay strong. I admire your vulnerability."&nbsp;

Former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka said: "The challenge today is to convince people of the value of truth, honesty, compassion and a concern for others."

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court".

Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open on Monday following the bitter fall-out from her decision to boycott all media activity, revealing she has "suffered long bouts of depression" and will now "take some time away from the court". "The best thing for the tournament, the other players and my well-being is that I withdraw so that everyone can get back to focusing on the tennis going on in Paris," the world number two wrote on Twitter. The 23-year-old Japanese star was fined $15,000 on Sunday and threatened with disqualification after she refused to carry out a mandatory news conference following her first round win. She claimed on the eve of Roland Garros that such post-match inquests were akin to "kicking people when they are down" and that they had a detrimental effect on her mental health. "I never wanted to be a distraction and I accept that my timing was not ideal and my message could have been clearer," the four-time Grand Slam title winner said in her statement. "The truth is I have suffered bouts of depression since the US Open in 2018 (when she beat Serena Williams for her first Slam title) and I have had a really hard time coping with that." She added: "In Paris, I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences. "I announced it preemptively because I do feel like the rules are quite out-dated in parts and I wanted to highlight that. "I am going to take some time away from the court now." Osaka said she has apologised to organisers over the affair which has dominated the early stages of the French Open ever since she warned last week that she would not carry out any media activity. Serena Williams said she sympathised with Osaka. "I feel for her, I wish could give her a hug," said the 23-time major winner after making the second round. "We all have different personalities. I am thick, others are thin. It's best to let her handle it the way she wants to." Martina Navratilova said she fully supported Osaka's decision. "I truly hope she will be ok. As athletes we are taught to take care of our body, and perhaps the mental & emotional aspect gets short shrift," tweeted Navratilova. "This is about more than doing or not doing a press conference. Good luck Naomi - we are all pulling for you!" French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton had described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error". On Monday, he said: "We are sorry and sad for Naomi Osaka. The outcome of Naomi withdrawing from Roland Garros is unfortunate." "We wish her the best and the quickest possible recovery," Moretton added as he read out a prepared statement without taking questions. "We look forward to having Naomi in our tournament next year." - Highest earning female athlete - Osaka is the world's highest earning female athlete, making $37.4 million in 2020. She burst onto the scene in 2018 with a maiden Slam win at the US Open. She has gone on to win another title in New York as well as two Australian Opens. Earlier Monday, Osaka's coach said she wanted to use her superstar status to force change in the sport. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel. "In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press. "So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day." Mari Osaka, a former player herself, said her sister had been struggling to cope in the run-up to Paris. "Naomi mentioned to me before the tournament that a family member had come up to her and remarked that she's bad on clay," Mari wrote on Reddit. "At every press conference she's told she has a bad record on clay. - 'Not OK mentally' - "When she lost in Rome, she was not OK mentally. She was completely shattered and I think everyone's remarks and opinions have gotten to her head." Teenage American player Coco Gauff tweeted her support for Osaka. "Stay strong. I admire your vulnerability." Former world number one and two-time major winner Victoria Azarenka said: "The challenge today is to convince people of the value of truth, honesty, compassion and a concern for others."

Tennis: After shock French Open withdrawal, Osaka reveals 'bouts of depression'

The French Open has deleted a post on its Twitter feed that praised players for attending media conferences as Naomi Osaka's press boycott continued to overshadow the Grand Slam.

The tweet showed pictures of Rafa Nadal, Kei Nishikori, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff engaging with the media along with the caption: "They understood the assignment."

Naomi Osaka announced before the start of the tournament that she would not do any press conferences to protect her mental health, prompting criticism from French&nbsp;Tennis&nbsp;Federation President Gilles Moretton.

Osaka was fined $15,000 for skipping her news conference after her first-round win on Sunday and was warned of possible expulsion from Roland Garros and future Grand Slams if she failed to meet her media commitments.

The Twitter post was deleted but not before being shared widely. It drew criticism from social media users but also supportive responses.

Former doubles world number one and&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;pundit Rennae Stubbs said the post was "humiliating" for Osaka.

"I understand your attempt at making a point but this isn’t a good look," she tweeted.

"I mean, these particular players are a great look for&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;but making a player feel guilty &amp; humiliating her is NOT a good look for a&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;fed."

Osaka started her French Open campaign with a 6-4 7-6(4) win over Romanian Patricia Maria Tig and participated in the courtside interview.

She later wrote on Twitter: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable."

The Japanese world number two next faces Romanian Ana Bogdan.

The French Open has deleted a post on its Twitter feed that praised players for attending media conferences as Naomi Osaka's press boycott continued to overshadow the Grand Slam.

The French Open has deleted a post on its Twitter feed that praised players for attending media conferences as Naomi Osaka's press boycott continued to overshadow the Grand Slam. The tweet showed pictures of Rafa Nadal, Kei Nishikori, Aryna Sabalenka, and Coco Gauff engaging with the media along with the caption: "They understood the assignment." Naomi Osaka announced before the start of the tournament that she would not do any press conferences to protect her mental health, prompting criticism from French Tennis Federation President Gilles Moretton. Osaka was fined $15,000 for skipping her news conference after her first-round win on Sunday and was warned of possible expulsion from Roland Garros and future Grand Slams if she failed to meet her media commitments. The Twitter post was deleted but not before being shared widely. It drew criticism from social media users but also supportive responses. Former doubles world number one and tennis pundit Rennae Stubbs said the post was "humiliating" for Osaka. "I understand your attempt at making a point but this isn’t a good look," she tweeted. "I mean, these particular players are a great look for tennis but making a player feel guilty & humiliating her is NOT a good look for a tennis fed." Osaka started her French Open campaign with a 6-4 7-6(4) win over Romanian Patricia Maria Tig and participated in the courtside interview. She later wrote on Twitter: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable." The Japanese world number two next faces Romanian Ana Bogdan.

Tennis: French Open deletes tweet on Naomi Osaka press blackout

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open.

"Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

"In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press.

"So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day."&nbsp;

On Sunday, officials at Roland Garros threatened Osaka, the world number two, with disqualification if she persists in boycotting media press conferences, which she claims are detrimental to her mental health.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old was fined $15,000 for refusing to attend a press conference after her opening 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Romanian world number 63 Patricia Maria Tig.

Following her win, Osaka agreed only to a cursory on-court TV interview.

Osaka has likened traditional post-match press conferences to&nbsp;"kicking people when they're down", but French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton has described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error".

However, following her win over Tig, Osaka stood firm by tweeting: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable."

In the Spiegel interview, Fissette also insisted Osaka "knows it's important to talk to the press" and is not boycotting the media "for herself alone", but is "concerned with fundamental issues -- she wants to bring about change".

Earlier this year, the Japanese superstar won the fourth Grand Slam title of her career at the Australian Open, but has never got past the third round of the French Open.&nbsp;

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel.

The coach of Naomi Osaka says she is using her superstar status to force change with her controversial media boycott at the French Open. "Naomi has the opportunity to use her status to address problems and to initiate things," Osaka's Belgian coach Wim Fissette told German magazine Der Spiegel. "In the United States, the subject is very topical at the moment, as athletes want more freedom in dealing with the press. "So that they are simply not threatened right away with punishment if they don't feel well for a day." On Sunday, officials at Roland Garros threatened Osaka, the world number two, with disqualification if she persists in boycotting media press conferences, which she claims are detrimental to her mental health. The 23-year-old was fined $15,000 for refusing to attend a press conference after her opening 6-4, 7-6 (7/4) victory over Romanian world number 63 Patricia Maria Tig. Following her win, Osaka agreed only to a cursory on-court TV interview. Osaka has likened traditional post-match press conferences to "kicking people when they're down", but French Tennis Federation president Gilles Moretton has described her vow of silence as "a phenomenal error". However, following her win over Tig, Osaka stood firm by tweeting: "Anger is a lack of understanding. Change makes people uncomfortable." In the Spiegel interview, Fissette also insisted Osaka "knows it's important to talk to the press" and is not boycotting the media "for herself alone", but is "concerned with fundamental issues -- she wants to bring about change". Earlier this year, the Japanese superstar won the fourth Grand Slam title of her career at the Australian Open, but has never got past the third round of the French Open.

Tennis: Osaka wants to use French Open media boycott 'to bring about change', says coach

Naomi Osaka has been threatened with disqualification from the ongoing French Open by Grand Slam organisers if she continues her media boycott at Roland Garros.

She was fined $15,000 for skipping her post-match press conference on Sunday and could face heftier punishments if she does not back down.

Here, AFP Sport looks at three infamous defaults at tennis' Grand Slam tournaments:

<h2>Novak Djokovic: 2020 US Open</h2>

--&nbsp;Perhaps the most memorable default in major history came only eight months ago when world number one Djokovic was disqualified after accidentally striking a female line judge with a ball in frustration.

The Serbian star's last-16 match against Pablo Carreno Busta lasted less than one set, as Djokovic hit the ball away in disgust after being broken to fall 6-5 behind, with it hitting the line judge in the throat.

Djokovic pleaded his case to the umpire and tournament referee Soeren Friemel, but after 10 minutes of discussion it was announced that the top seed's US Open was over.

He went then directly to his car and left the Flushing Meadows site in New York without speaking to reporters.

"I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong," Djokovic later said in an apology posted on social media.

<h2>Jeff Tarango: 1995 Wimbledon</h2>

--&nbsp;Tarango argued repeatedly with chair umpire Bruno Rebeuh during a third round match against Alexander Mronz and the American refused to continue to play, effectively defaulting himself.

Rebeuh gave him code violation for telling spectators to "shut up", claiming it was an audible obscenity.

Tarango accused Rebeuh of being "one of the most corrupt officials in the game" so Rebeuh gave the American another code violation.

Tarango packed up his racquets and stormed off the court. Tarango's wife then slapped Rebeuh twice in the face.

<h2>John McEnroe: 1990 Australian Open</h2>

--&nbsp;One of McEnroe's most notorious tantrums. Facing Sweden's Mikael Pernfors, he was warned for intimidating a lineswoman, docked a point for smashing a racquet and shouted at a fan whose baby was crying.

He then abused tournament supervisor Ken Farrar. Umpire Gerry Armstrong immediately disqualified the American who admitted later: "I can't say I'm surprised. It was bound to happen."

McEnroe also said he had misunderstood the rules, not realising they had changed to a three-strike process for a default rather than the previous four-strike system.

<h2>Not a modern phenomenon</h2>

-- However, getting kicked out of Grand Slam events isn't new.

The last player to be defaulted before McEnroe was Spaniard Willie Alvarez at the French Championships in 1963.

American Earl Cochell was defaulted from the US Championships in 1951 and banned for life from the sport for arguing with officials. He was allowed to return in 1962 but his best days were long behind him.

Naomi Osaka has been threatened with disqualification from the ongoing French Open by Grand Slam organisers if she continues her media boycott at Roland Garros. She was fined $15,000 for skipping her post-match press conference on Sunday and could face heftier punishments if she does not back down.

Naomi Osaka has been threatened with disqualification from the ongoing French Open by Grand Slam organisers if she continues her media boycott at Roland Garros. She was fined $15,000 for skipping her post-match press conference on Sunday and could face heftier punishments if she does not back down. Here, AFP Sport looks at three infamous defaults at tennis' Grand Slam tournaments: Novak Djokovic: 2020 US Open -- Perhaps the most memorable default in major history came only eight months ago when world number one Djokovic was disqualified after accidentally striking a female line judge with a ball in frustration. The Serbian star's last-16 match against Pablo Carreno Busta lasted less than one set, as Djokovic hit the ball away in disgust after being broken to fall 6-5 behind, with it hitting the line judge in the throat. Djokovic pleaded his case to the umpire and tournament referee Soeren Friemel, but after 10 minutes of discussion it was announced that the top seed's US Open was over. He went then directly to his car and left the Flushing Meadows site in New York without speaking to reporters. "I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong," Djokovic later said in an apology posted on social media. Jeff Tarango: 1995 Wimbledon -- Tarango argued repeatedly with chair umpire Bruno Rebeuh during a third round match against Alexander Mronz and the American refused to continue to play, effectively defaulting himself. Rebeuh gave him code violation for telling spectators to "shut up", claiming it was an audible obscenity. Tarango accused Rebeuh of being "one of the most corrupt officials in the game" so Rebeuh gave the American another code violation. Tarango packed up his racquets and stormed off the court. Tarango's wife then slapped Rebeuh twice in the face. John McEnroe: 1990 Australian Open -- One of McEnroe's most notorious tantrums. Facing Sweden's Mikael Pernfors, he was warned for intimidating a lineswoman, docked a point for smashing a racquet and shouted at a fan whose baby was crying. He then abused tournament supervisor Ken Farrar. Umpire Gerry Armstrong immediately disqualified the American who admitted later: "I can't say I'm surprised. It was bound to happen." McEnroe also said he had misunderstood the rules, not realising they had changed to a three-strike process for a default rather than the previous four-strike system. Not a modern phenomenon -- However, getting kicked out of Grand Slam events isn't new. The last player to be defaulted before McEnroe was Spaniard Willie Alvarez at the French Championships in 1963. American Earl Cochell was defaulted from the US Championships in 1951 and banned for life from the sport for arguing with officials. He was allowed to return in 1962 but his best days were long behind him.

Tennis: Be careful Naomi! Three infamous Grand Slam defaults

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said.

"We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments.

"As might be expected, repeat violations attract tougher sanctions including default from the tournament."

World number two Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam title winner and sport's highest-earning female athlete, was fined $15,000 on Sunday for refusing to hold a press conference after her opening win against Patricia Maria Tig.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said. "We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka was Sunday threatened with disqualification from the French Open if she continues her media boycott, officials said. "We have advised Naomi Osaka that should she continue to ignore her media obligations during the tournament, she would be exposing herself to possible further Code of Conduct infringement consequences," said a statement from the four Grand Slam tournaments. "As might be expected, repeat violations attract tougher sanctions including default from the tournament." World number two Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam title winner and sport's highest-earning female athlete, was fined $15,000 on Sunday for refusing to hold a press conference after her opening win against Patricia Maria Tig.

Tennis: Osaka faces French Open default if she continues media boycott

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the&nbsp;tennis&nbsp;landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters.

Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome.

She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface.

"In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot."

Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar.

Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form.

"I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half."

Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively.

Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday.

Naomi Osaka's decision to shun the media at the French Open has rocked the tennis landscape and all eyes will be on the world number two when she takes on Romanian Patricia Maria Tig in her first match on Court Philippe-Chatrier on Sunday. Osaka's announcement that she would boycott her press conferences to protect her mental health has sparked heated debate, with the 23-year-old Japanese player drawing support and condemnation from various quarters. Osaka missed last year's French Open with a hamstring injury and her preparation has been far from ideal this year, with only three matches under her belt on clay after early defeats in Madrid and Rome. She has never progressed beyond the third round in Paris and said in Rome that she was still coming to grips with her least-favorite surface. "In a weird way, I'm kind of glad I'm not winning," Osaka had said. "I know that sounds a bit off, but I feel like I'm learning a lot." Men's fourth seed Dominic Thiem, who stitched together a run to the semi-finals in Madrid before falling early in Rome and Lyon, is also in action against Spaniard Pablo Andujar. Twice a finalist at Roland Garros, the Austrian will not meet one of the 'Big Three' - Rafa Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer - until the quarter-finals, being in the other half of the draw, but is more worried about his own form. "I think the way I'm coming into the tournament, the way I also played the last weeks, the only thing I can focus on is the first rounds," Thiem said. "I shouldn't focus at all on who is in my quarter or even who is in my half." Greece's Monte Carlo Masters and Lyon champion Stefanos Tsitsipas, who is seeded fifth, and Germany's Madrid Masters winner Alexander Zverev, the sixth seed, are also in action, against Jeremy Chardy and qualifier Oscar Otte, respectively. Third seed Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, who beat Australian world number one Ash Barty in the Madrid showpiece, faces Croatian qualifier Ana Konjuh, who reached the final in Belgrade last week but retired with a hip injury.

Tennis: Naomi Osaka takes centre stage as French Open gets underway

Japan's Naomi Osaka said on Sunday, May 9&nbsp;that while she has spent her entire life waiting to compete at the&nbsp;Olympics, the risks of holding the Tokyo Games amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic should continue to be carefully discussed.

Opinion surveys have shown that most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to worries about the coronavirus, and Tokyo itself is currently under a state of emergency to tame a rise in infections.

Naomi Osaka, the world number two women's tennis player and one of Japan's top athletes, said staging the Games should remain a topic of discussion as long as the subject was "making people very uncomfortable".

"Of course I want the&nbsp;Olympics&nbsp;to happen, but I think there's so much important stuff going on, especially the past year," she told a news conference ahead of the Italian Open in Rome. "A lot of unexpected things have happened.

"For me, I feel like if it's putting people at risk... then it definitely should be a discussion, which I think it is as of right now. At the end of the day, I'm just an athlete, and there is a whole pandemic going on, so, yeah."

Japan has recorded more than 600,000 coronavirus cases and more than 10,500 deaths, but its inoculation campaign has been relatively slow so far, with only about 2% of the population of about 126 million have received at least one vaccine dose.

Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga promised on Friday, May 7 to fast-track the government's vaccination drive, saying it aimed to administer 1 million shots a day.

Osaka, who at the age of 23 has won both the U.S. Open and Australian Open twice, said she had already been vaccinated against COVID-19, and added that it would not be right to "force" people to get inoculated.

"There is going to be a lot of people entering the country so they definitely have to make the right decisions on that," she said.

"I've gotten vaccinated (but) I think that at the end of the day you can't force anyone to be vaccinated."

Japan's Naomi Osaka said on Sunday, May 9 that while she has spent her entire life waiting to compete at the Olympics, the risks of holding the Tokyo Games amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic should continue to be carefully discussed.

Japan's Naomi Osaka said on Sunday, May 9 that while she has spent her entire life waiting to compete at the Olympics, the risks of holding the Tokyo Games amid the raging COVID-19 pandemic should continue to be carefully discussed. Opinion surveys have shown that most Japanese oppose holding the Games this summer due to worries about the coronavirus, and Tokyo itself is currently under a state of emergency to tame a rise in infections. Naomi Osaka, the world number two women's tennis player and one of Japan's top athletes, said staging the Games should remain a topic of discussion as long as the subject was "making people very uncomfortable". "Of course I want the Olympics to happen, but I think there's so much important stuff going on, especially the past year," she told a news conference ahead of the Italian Open in Rome. "A lot of unexpected things have happened. "For me, I feel like if it's putting people at risk... then it definitely should be a discussion, which I think it is as of right now. At the end of the day, I'm just an athlete, and there is a whole pandemic going on, so, yeah." Japan has recorded more than 600,000 coronavirus cases and more than 10,500 deaths, but its inoculation campaign has been relatively slow so far, with only about 2% of the population of about 126 million have received at least one vaccine dose. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga promised on Friday, May 7 to fast-track the government's vaccination drive, saying it aimed to administer 1 million shots a day. Osaka, who at the age of 23 has won both the U.S. Open and Australian Open twice, said she had already been vaccinated against COVID-19, and added that it would not be right to "force" people to get inoculated. "There is going to be a lot of people entering the country so they definitely have to make the right decisions on that," she said. "I've gotten vaccinated (but) I think that at the end of the day you can't force anyone to be vaccinated."

Staging of the Olympics 'should definitely be a discussion', says Naomi Osaka

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