Naomi Osaka was left visibly emotional after being asked what she described as a “devastating question” following her US Open semi-final loss.
The two-time champion at Flushing Meadows looked on course for another final appearance but let slip a deciding-set lead in a painful defeat to Amanda Anisimova, 6-7, 7-6, 6-3.
Her disappointment was compounded in the post-match press conference when she was questioned about her beloved collection of custom-made Labubu dolls, which she had been showcasing throughout the tournament—each with its own name.
One reporter asked her what the next Labubu would have been. Struggling to hold back tears, Osaka replied: “Don’t make me cry, man. That’s the most devastating question. I just said I wanted one of myself in last year’s green outfit, with the bow. I’m sick about it. Honestly, losing is fine, but don’t ask me about this Labubu.”
Despite the emotional moment, Osaka insisted she wasn’t too downhearted about the loss, explaining that she gave her all. “Honestly, I don’t feel sad. It’s not weird, because I really feel I did my best. It’s inspiring, actually—it makes me want to train harder, improve, and see what I can do next time. I can’t be upset with myself.”
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