Naomi Osaka competed in the revamped US Open mixed doubles tournament.
The former world number one was due to compete alongside Nick Kyrgios, one half of the 2022 Australian Open men’s doubles champions.
But after the 30-year-old withdrew from the tournament, Osaka took to the court alongside ATP veteran Gael Monfils.
She was delighted to be partnered by the beloved Frenchman, and they began the event at Arthur Ashe Stadium against Lorenzo Musetti and Cary McNally.
Photo by Elsa/Getty ImagesNaomi Osaka thrilled to play with ‘GOAT’ Gael Monfils at the US Open
There were plenty of all-star teams in the US Open mixed doubles tournament, and many pairs who have not previously played doubles together.
Monfils and Naomi Osaka had not played doubles together before, and have played just 133 combined doubles matches in their careers.
Musetti and McNally, two experienced doubles players, competed well as a team and they completed a 5-3, 4-2 victory over Osaka and Monfils.
Despite the defeat, Osaka enjoyed her time on court with the former ATP top 10 player, which she expressed throughout a message she posted on social media.
“My GOAT. Thank you Gael Monfils for playing with me, it’s such an honour,” Osaka wrote. “See you in a few days NY.”
She added on her Instagram story: “Played with my GOAT [Monfils]. Happy I can cross this off the bucket list.”
Photo by Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty ImagesNaomi Osaka is now preparing for the women’s singles at the US Open
After an appearance in the US Open mixed doubles tournament, Osaka will continue her preparations for the women’s singles.
The tournament will commence on Sunday and the Japanese star will aim to win her third championship at Flushing Meadows and a fifth Grand Slam title overall.
She will enter the tournament in good form, having reached the final of the Canadian Open on August 7.
Though Osaka lost to home favourite Victoria Mboko that day, her confidence will be high after reaching her first WTA 1000 final since 2022.
Osaka will be seeded 25 at the US Open, one behind Mboko, which could benefit her after suffering some tricky draws in the majors since returning to the tour in 2024.
AloJapan.com