Naomi Osaka Press Conference | 2025 US Open Quarterfinal

Reflecting on the Quarterfinal Win

• 💡 Naomi Osaka described her quarterfinal match as "really tough," focusing on "hanging in there" and waiting for opportunities to emerge.

Lessons from Her Comeback Journey

• 🧠 Osaka shared that she learned she "loves tennis way more" than she previously thought and now embraces challenges like a "video game," restarting after losses.
• 🚀 She now "appreciates the journey a lot more," a shift from her younger self who constantly focused only on the next match.
• 👏 Osaka expressed gratitude for playing well in New York City, hoping to fully appreciate the entire journey at the tournament's conclusion.

Finding Clarity and New Coaching

• 🎯 Osaka revealed she stopped comparing herself to other moms and found new clarity after Wimbledon and a specific match in DC.
• 🤝 A "round table" with her team helped her realize she could still beat anyone from the baseline, prompting a necessary game plan adjustment.
• ⚡ The arrival of coach Thomas marked a significant turning point, leading to a successful run since his involvement.

Strategic Focus in Matches

• ✅ Osaka noted she is "definitely a lot more focused" now, understanding "point structure" and the critical importance of "conserving energy."
• 📈 She aims to "hone in a lot more" during matches, contrasting with past experiences where she might have been more easily distracted.

Next Opponent and Personal Style

• 💬 Osaka views her next opponent, Amanda Anisimova, as "one of the most talented players" on tour, describing her as unpredictable and anticipating a "really tough match."
• 👗 She believes "if you look good, you can feel good" and perceives wearing different clothes as embodying "different characters" on court.
• 🎨 Osaka considers purple a potentially "lucky color" that complements her skin tone, although she acknowledges that some fans prefer her red outfits.