Naomi Osaka-‘Worst match I’ve ever played’ after Indian Wells exit

Former World No. 1 Naomi Osaka expresses deep disappointment following her first-round loss at Indian Wells, labeling it the “worst match” of her career.

Naomi Osaka suffers a first-round defeat at Indian Wells to Camila Osorio, describing it as the “worst match” she’s ever played, she and vows to improve in upcoming tournaments.

In a surprising turn of events at the Indian Wells tournament, former World No. 1 Naomi Osaka faced an early exit, succumbing to Colombia’s Camila Osorio in straight sets, 6-4, 6-4. This match marked Osaka’s return to the court following her retirement from the Australian Open due to injury. Post-match, Osaka did not mince words about her performance, stating, “This was the worst match I have ever played.” She apologized to her fans and attributed her subpar showing to limited practice time before the match, particularly affecting her serve.

Osorio’s victory was historic, as she became the first Colombian woman to defeat a former World No. 1 on the WTA Tour. This win also marked her first at Indian Wells, setting up a second-round clash with Clara Tauson.

Despite the setback, Osaka remains focused on her upcoming schedule, aiming to rebound at the Miami Open starting on March 16, where she is a defending champion. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has been gradually rebuilding her career after returning from maternity leave last year. Her early exit at Indian Wells is a setback, but she has emphasized patience in her comeback journey.

Inside the Baseline…

Osaka’s honesty about her performance is refreshing, but it also raises questions about where she’s at mentally in this comeback. Confidence doesn’t just snap back into place after time away, and matches like this, where nothing feels right, can be brutal. But if anyone has shown the ability to reset and rise again, it’s Osaka. Whether she uses this as fuel or lets it linger will shape the next stretch of her season.

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