Naomi Osaka Press Conference | 2025 US Open Round 3

Match Performance & Mental Approach

• 🧠 Mentally fought through the Round 3 match against Daria Kasatkina, despite not feeling she played "that well."
• 🎢 Described the match as an emotional roller coaster, but ultimately happy to have secured the win.
• 🎯 Focuses on one point at a time during matches and doesn't pre-plan for score changes, instead trying to calm herself when nervous.

Return to Tennis & Current Form

• 🌱 Initially wanted quick results after returning but learned to focus on each match individually.
• ✅ Pleased with her progress, noting good performances in Montreal and the US Open, and enjoying working with Thomas.
• 🚀 Feels more confident in her defense after working on speed, using it strategically rather than being a pure defensive player.

Anticipating Coco Gauff Match

• 🕰️ Recalls playing Coco Gauff six years ago at the US Open when Gauff was 15, recognizing her future potential.
• ✨ Feels it's "special" to play Gauff again at this point in her life, especially feeling healthy and excited for the challenge.
• 🏟️ Notes Gauff is a "main star of the US Open" and looks forward to playing on Ash again.

Reflections on Her Journey

• 😌 Expresses gratitude to be back and smiling at press conferences, especially after experiencing many tough losses.
• 👶 Reflects on her young age before her pregnancy break, realizing she needs to give herself grace for past achievements.
• 📈 Believes her hard work is "amounting to something," making this year better than the last, and is excited for the Asian swing.

Insights on Other Players

• 👏 Praises Venus Williams as a legend, appreciating her continued play and inspiration despite her age.
• 🌟 Admired Coco Gauff's journey and her role as a role model for young people.
• 🎭 Suggests the US Open atmosphere might contribute to dramatic moments for some players, but feels New York brings out her best behavior.