Naomi Osaka Reacts to Her Huge Ranking Slump After Australian Open 2022 Defeat

With each passing year, one can see changes in players from both the ATP and WTA tour with respect to the way they are off the court, especially young athletes. Last year, Naomi Osaka was surrounded by controversy after her decision to skip the post-match pressers at the French Open. Now, she gave an honest interview to media over her third-round loss to Amanda Anisimova at the Australian Open.

Osaka was on top of her game against Anisimova but was not expecting the speed with which the latter hit the ball, and this took Naomi by surprise more than once during the match. In the crucial third-set super tie-breaker, Anisimova upped the ante and eased past the Japanese player to set up a mouth-watering fourth round clash against Ashleigh Barty.

Naomi Osaka unbothered about rankings drop post Anisimova defeat at Australian Open

In the post-match presser, Osaka was asked about her rankings slump post the defeat at Margaret Court Arena. A confident Osaka responded that she was not bothered by the rankings so much and focused on the need to work hard.

“I’m not really sure. But, I also know that I’m not quite worried about my ranking. I think that it will go up to where it needs to go up to… Honestly, if I’m not ranked at Slams, I think the other people that I’m playing against would be more worried about it than I am. You know what I mean? So, for me, I’m just gonna keep my head down and keep working harder. I think I’ll get to where I’ll need to get to,” said Naomi.

That was an honest take down by Osaka over her current situation. In a straight-faced response, the four-time Grand Slam champion managed to maintain confidence while also accepting the need to put in more efforts.

Another interesting response from the former World No.1 came when a reporter asked what were the learnings she had during her time away from tennis last year. To this, Osaka replied that she would like to be more grateful for her accomplishments and her future aspirations.

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Osaka’s fresh perspective for the 2022 WTA season after a brief hiatus last year

Osaka seemed centered and composed throughout the interview, and it was great to see the Japanese star back to her best after the difficult time she endured last year.

“I’ve been writing a journal, trying to figure out what my goals are and what I want to accomplish in my career. I’m here right now at the Australian Open. But, you never know when it’s gonna be your last one. Playing in Rod Laver Arena every time is something that I don’t wanna take for granted… Of course, be more grateful for the things that I accomplish and the things that I want to accomplish,” Naomi stated.

When we talk numbers, in the updated rankings that will get released post the Australian Open, Osaka will drop to the 84th spot. In a way, the Japanese star needs to re-build her way to the top and it will be a glorious achievement if fans get to see her achieve the same by the end of 2022 WTA tour.

Also read: WATCH: Naomi Osaka Tears up as Team Consoles Her Post Heart-Breaking Loss to Amanda Anisimova at Australian Open 2022