'I'm Afraid She Won't Be Back On Her Former Level': Radwanska On Osaka
WTA
Agnieszka Radwanska fears that Naomi Osaka may never return to her best since the former world No. 1 does not enjoy being in the spotlight.
Osaka has become one of the most well-known tennis players in the world. She is a four-time Grand Slam champion, the most recent of her major titles coming at the 2021 Australian Open.
However, Osaka's struggles throughout 2022 have received much media attention. The Japanese star has been open and brave about her mental health struggles, meaning the negativity from social media users this year could impact her a lot.
Osaka's latest setback was losing in the opening round of the US Open to Danielle Collins. The 24-year-old admitted afterward that she finds it hard to control many thoughts in her head during matches.
Radwanska, who took part in a charity match in aid of Ukraine with Iga Swiatek earlier this season, worries that Osaka might not return to her best level due to the constant pressure on her shoulders.
"I know this girl and I know that she is not a person who likes to walk on walls, shine in the spotlight. I guess there weren't many people around her who would say: if you don't feel something, don't do it. Match, one session, the second, red carpet."
"I'm not surprised that she did not bear such a burden. Unfortunately, the pressure is still growing, everyone expects victories from it. I'm afraid Naomi won't be back on her former level."
"It was a taboo subject. You have to look at it from a broader perspective. Fifteen years ago, depression was considered a shame in society. 'What are you making up? Tomorrow you will do it!"
Radwanska's concerns are understandable, but Osaka is still young at 24 years old. It might be too soon to worry about the two-time US Open champion not getting back to her best.
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