Naomi Osaka starred on the court and in the media conference room after winning the US Open on Saturday with a 6-2, 6-4 victory over Serena Williams in the final.
Here are six of her best quotes from her post-match news conference:
“I always thought I should put like a GoPro on him during my matches.”
– On her father Leonard’s habit of not watching his daughter play, opting instead to take a stroll around the grounds.
“I chose him to work with because he twisted his ankle within the first five minutes of practice. I was like, Yup, this guy right here, he’s going to be great.”
– On working with coach Sascha Bajin
“I don’t know what happened on the court. So for me, I’m always going to remember the Serena that I love. It doesn’t change anything for me. She was really nice to me, like, at the net and on the podium. I don’t really see what would change.”
– On her affection for Serena Williams despite the American’s meltdown
“Everyone who was born in Osaka, their last name is Osaka.”
“Is that true?”
“No.”
– On sharing her surname with the Japanese city of her birth
“When I was growing up, I did a whole report on her in third grade. I coloured it and everything. I said, I want to be like her. It’s maybe in like a folder at home or something. I’m not sure.”
– On her affection for the American at an early age
“Sleep! I’m not really a social person like that. Maybe I’ll play video games.”
– On plans to celebrate on Saturday night
You can watch the entire press conference here.
Buy an annual Scroll Membership to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!