“It Puts you in a Box”: Naomi Osaka Opens Up on Being Labeled as ‘the Quiet One’

Breathtaking Tennis greeted fans from the courts of Cincinnati this week. However, as the event came to its natural conclusion, Naomi Osaka grabbed the off-court headlines. Announcing yet another fun collaboration, the World No. 2 sent Twitter into a frenzy. Enthralled fans were extremely appreciative, as Naomi shared her candid conversation with the Women’s Health Magazine, in build-up to the launch of her brand, Kinloskin.

Earlier this year, the 23-year-old announced the launch of Kinloskin, a skincare brand developed by herself. The budding businesswoman and her brand promise to help those with melanated skin tones, in a hope of protecting and saving more lives.

Gearing up for her official launch now, the Japanese sensation was caught candid in conversation with the Women’s Health Magazine. She opened up on the difficulties she faces even today but continues to embrace her true self, regardless.

“I embrace it”- Naomi Osaka

Naomi is one of the most popular faces in the tennis community, both on and off the court. Her fine form and sublime simplicity have won hearts, with millions following the star wherever she goes. However, not a fan of the unwanted attention, Naomi hasn’t had the best of encounters with the media. Regardless, un-affected by the talk around her, she remains her unapologetic self, not shying away from her true personality.

Opening up on the same, Naomi revealed moments of her childhood that she spent facing difficulties with labels, courtesy of her race and personality. She said, “Growing up being [labeled] ‘the quiet one’ puts you in a box and, even worse, makes you stand out when all you want is to blend in.”

“But now I try to embrace and own it.”

Naomi made headlines across the world for her brave prioritization of her mental health. When she found her mental well-being at stake, she took a break from the sport, despite being at the highest point in her career. Notably, what was a personal decision, became a worldwide movement.

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Unique in her own way

Sadly, even as Naomi returned to the court, having started a global conversation about a topic that needed the limelight, not much changed for herself. Naomi recently left another interview, tearful, covering her eyes. Revealing her take on the media, she said, “I never wanted media training. Because I didn’t want to change my personality to offer a canned response that didn’t feel like me.”

“Yes, some people may find my personality different, just as they do my mixed-race background. But I find it to be the thing that makes me uniquely myself.”

Gearing up for the forthcoming US Open, Naomi is surely one of the favorites, given her stature. Can she perform according to her caliber and make a successful comeback, or will she fail to replicate her glorious history at the tournament?

Read more: “I’m Exhausted”: Ashleigh Barty Opens Up on Mental Feelings After Her Tennis Comeback