ROME — Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka broke down in tears during her post-match press conference following her second-round loss to Paula Badosa at the Italian Open, expressing fear of potential fines for her emotional reaction on court. The former world No. 1, who has been open about her mental health struggles, revealed the pressure she feels to conform to tennis' strict behavioral expectations.
Osaka, playing her first clay-court tournament since 2022, fought valiantly before falling 6-4, 6-2 to Badosa in a match marked by several emotional outbursts. The Japanese star smashed her racket twice during the second set and received a code violation for audible obscenity, later admitting she was "struggling to control my emotions out there."
The Press Conference Breakdown
During the post-match press conference, Osaka became visibly distressed when asked about her on-court behavior. "I'm trying really hard to keep it together," she said through tears. "I feel like every time I have this moment, it's like a building block — it's not just one thing. I'm just really tired of this happening and I feel like I'm about to cry right now."
The 26-year-old specifically referenced her concern about financial penalties: "I know I'm going to get fined for this, and I know it's going to be really expensive, and I feel like money is going out of my pocket and I can't help it." Under WTA rules, racket abuse carries a maximum fine of $20,000 for repeat offenses.
Osaka's History with Tennis' Pressures
This isn't the first time Osaka has struggled with the mental toll of professional tennis. In 2021, she withdrew from the French Open after being fined $15,000 for skipping mandatory press conferences, citing depression and anxiety. She later took extended breaks from competition in 2021 and 2022 to prioritize her mental health.
Key moments in Osaka's mental health journey:
- 2021 French Open withdrawal and subsequent break from tennis
- 2022 decision to step away after US Open first-round exit
- 2023 return with reduced schedule and focus on well-being
Recent Comeback Challenges
Since returning from maternity leave in January 2024, Osaka has faced difficulties regaining her top form. Her current ranking of No. 173 reflects the challenges of balancing motherhood with elite competition. "I know I'm not where I want to be yet," she admitted. "But I'm trying to be kind to myself through this process."
The Tennis World Reacts
Paula Badosa showed empathy for her opponent after their match: "I know Naomi has been through a lot. She's a great champion and I have so much respect for her. I hope she can find her happiness on court again because tennis needs players like her."
Mental health advocates praised Osaka's continued openness. Dr. Alan Currie, a sports psychiatrist, told Tennis Channel: "Naomi's willingness to show vulnerability helps normalize these struggles for other athletes. The pressure to perform while managing emotions is immense at this level."
WTA's Evolving Stance
The WTA has implemented several mental health initiatives since Osaka's 2021 withdrawal, including:
- Expanded player support programs
- More flexible media requirements
- Mental health first aid training for tournament staff
However, behavioral fines remain controversial. A WTA spokesperson stated: "While we prioritize player well-being, maintaining professional standards during competition is equally important. Fines are a last resort, not a punishment for emotional expression."
Looking Ahead
Osaka remains committed to her clay-court season despite the setback, with plans to compete in Strasbourg before Roland Garros. "I'm not giving up," she affirmed. "These moments are hard, but they're part of the journey back to where I want to be."
The tennis world will watch closely as one of its most prominent stars continues navigating the complex intersection of elite performance and mental health. As Osaka noted: "Maybe my honesty will help someone else feel less alone in their struggles. That makes the hard days worth it."