Naomi Osaka reflects on early Australian Open exit, 'There's a voice in my head...'

NEW DELHI: Former world no. 1, Naomi Osaka expressed disappointment after bowing out of the Australian Open in the first round on Monday but found solace in the rapid progress she believes she's making in her comeback after a 15-month hiatus from the game.
The Japanese tennis sensation, who took time off to welcome her daughter Shai, faced a challenging return, ultimately losing 6-4, 7-6(2) to French 16th seed Caroline Garcia on the iconic Rod Laver Arena court, where she clinched two of her four Grand Slam titles.
"I thought it was a really good match. For me, I felt like I did the best that I could possibly do," Osaka told reporters. "I think I still feel like a bit disappointed... I'm not too happy right now, but I think I can learn from the progress."
Osaka acknowledged the nerves but emphasized her positive mindset throughout the match. Reflecting on the encounter, she noted improvement as the game unfolded and expressed a determination to learn from the experience.
Facing Garcia, a seasoned competitor, proved to be a substantial challenge for Osaka, who had only played two matches in Brisbane two weeks prior to her return to tournament tennis. Garcia secured the crucial break point in the fifth game of the first set, setting the tone for the match.

Despite moments where Osaka had opportunities to break back, Garcia's strong serving and consistent play allowed her to claim the set. The second set saw Osaka struggle to apply pressure with her returns, and Garcia's solid performance, especially in the tiebreak, sealed her victory.
"I felt like I was constantly on my back foot and really hesitant... It kind of sucks a little," Osaka admitted, analyzing her performance.
Garcia, acknowledging Osaka's remarkable career and resilience after a 15-month hiatus, expressed confidence that the Japanese star would soon return to the top of her game. "Six months after giving birth and she's playing amazing, so we have to watch out," Garcia stated.

For Osaka, this early exit marks her earliest departure in eight visits to the Australian Open and her third consecutive first-round loss in a Grand Slam, following the French and U.S. Opens in 2022.
Despite the immediate frustration, Osaka grappled with the internal expectations that come with her competitive spirit. "Of course, there's a voice in my head that is, 'Who are you to think you can come back and immediately start winning matches?'" she shared. "I don't know. I kind of always expect myself to stand a chance anyways."
(With Reuters inputs)