Naomi Osaka worryingly cuts interview short after injury scare in Japan
NewsWednesday, 15 October 2025 at 12:23
Naomi Osaka won her second match at the 2025 Japan Championships, but she had to battle through an injury that she picked up late in the match.
The second-round match against Suzan Lamens presented Osaka with multiple challenges. She won the first set of the match in the tie-break, even though her opponent served for it. Lamens then won the second set, so the match had to be decided in the third set.
Despite facing two break points in the opening game of the decider, Osaka was an overwhelmingly better player on the court in the opening stages of the third set, quickly establishing a 5-0 lead.
At 5-0 and 30-30, she was only two points away from winning the match, but it was exactly at that point that she felt something in her left leg. Osaka didn't want to risk anything, requesting a mid-game medical timeout.
She then returned to the court with her left leg strapped, but it took some effort to get over the finish line. The former WTA world No. 1 player didn't use two chances to win the match up 5-2 and 40-15, but she got to her third match point on her opponent's serve.
Osaka eventually won the match 7-6(6), 3-6, 6-2, and immediately after the last ball was hit, it was clear how emotional the win was for her. The Japanese player then addressed the home crowd, admitting that it was an emotional match for her.
"Emotionally, I was going through a lot in this match. And then in the third set, I tried my best to have no regrets."
However, there were also some worries raised because of Osaka's interview, as she cut it short. The four-time Grand Slam champion admitted she still felt pain and wanted to rush off the court as quickly as possible.
"It was definitely really difficult. I am kind of sorry about my attitude, but I’m really glad to have won, and it’s very special for me to play here, so thank you guys for coming out. Can I go? My leg is really hurting, I’m sorry."
Despite obvious discomfort, Osaka also added that she believes she will be healthy enough for her next match at the event. The Japanese No. 1 will take on Jaqueline Cristian for a spot in the semi-finals.
"I took Advils, so I think it feels better than what it is right now, but obviously it doesn't feel good. I couldn't really move that well. It's not good, but I think I'm a fast healer so it should be OK for my next match."
A season-ending injury is the last thing Osaka needs at the moment, but at the same time, even if her 2025 season ended with such disappointment, she would certainly consider it a success. She started the season outside of the Top 50 and will start it inside the Top 20, which will present her with even more space for growth in 2026.
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