Osaka and Monfils Experience Early Exit in US Open Mixed Doubles

Naomi Osaka discussed her experience partnering with Gael Monfils in the US Open mixed doubles tournament.

Osaka and Monfils commenced their mixed doubles journey facing Lorenzo Musetti and Caty McNally; however, they were unable to proceed further after a 5-3, 4-2 defeat.

When questioned about her collaboration with Monfils in the US Open mixed doubles following the match, Osaka shared that their connection stemmed from discussions about their children, given that they are both parents.

Naomi Osaka stated, “He’s my GOAT. He’s very kind. He embodies everything I think of when I see him, always encouraging me with comments like, ‘Good point,’ or urging me to persevere. He’s incredibly sweet.”

“We chatted regarding our kids. I joked that we were ‘Team Parents’ as we both have daughters. He suggested that they should arrange a playdate, which I thought was incredibly cute.”

Osaka further lauded the French athlete, noting that he might not fully recognize the extent of his influence on fellow tennis players.

The Japanese tennis star recalled watching his matches during her childhood, around the ages of 10, 12, and 13.

Osaka added, “It’s quite interesting. I’m not sure he realizes how significant he is to tennis players like myself, because when the Miami Open was the Sony Ericsson, I would literally attend, around the ages of 10, 12, 13, to watch him and Tsonga.”

“I clearly remember sitting there in the heat, eagerly awaiting his specific match. So, playing alongside him was truly amazing.”