Speech Snub Sparks Online Backlash
Naomi Osaka’s runner-up speech at the National Bank Open in Montreal sparked heated debate after she failed to mention champion Victoria Mboko. The Japanese star, who led by a set before falling 6-2, 4-6, 1-6, kept her remarks brief, thanking event staff before exiting the stage. Fans online branded the omission “rude” and “classless.”
Roddick: “We’re the Only Sport Forced to Talk After We Lose”
Speaking on his Quick Served podcast, former world No.1 Andy Roddick defended Osaka, stressing the unique emotional demands tennis places on its athletes.
“She didn’t want to expand much after the match,” Roddick said. “We’re the only sport that makes you speak immediately after losing. You’re not your best self in that moment. I’d rather Naomi be friendly with Vicky Mboko in private than just on Grandstand with a microphone.”
Roddick drew parallels to how other athletes’ emotions are perceived, noting the double standard: “If Michael Jordan did that, they’d call it competitive fire. When Serena [Williams] showed that edge, she got criticized. People are allowed to be p—–.”
A Turning Point Ahead of the US Open
Setting the controversy aside, Roddick praised Osaka’s Montreal run as her strongest in years. The event marked her first tournament since parting with coach Patrick Mouratoglou.
“She’s switching directions, hitting that inside-out backhand line—it showed how badly she wanted it,” Roddick said. “This was a big week for Naomi.”
Now ranked No.25, Osaka is within striking distance of the top 10, and Roddick believes the next two months could be decisive: “One big Slam result—a semi or final—and she’s right there.”