Naomi Osaka and Gael Monfils’ partnership at the US Open, whilst short-lived, was supremely enjoyable.
After all, it brought together two of tennis’ most open and affable individuals together.
And whilst that did not translate into tangible success on the court, they certainly seemed to have fun playing together.
Speaking ahead of her return to singles action at the US Open, Naomi Osaka has heaped huge praise on the Frenchman, revealing what it’s like to play with him, and what he actually doesn’t realise about himself.
Naomi Osaka reacts to playing mixed doubles with Gael Monfils
Speaking at her pre-US Open press conference, the Japanese tennis star began by insisting: “He’s super kind.”
She continued: “He’s exactly how I would think of when I see him just constantly telling me, like, Good point, or to keep going. Super adorable.
“We were talking about our kids. I was joking that we’re Team Parents because we both have daughters. He was saying they should go on a play date, which I think was super cute.
“Yeah, it’s kind of interesting. I don’t think he knows how important of a figure he is to tennis players like me, because back when the Miami Open was the Sony Ericsson, I would literally go, like when I was 10, 12, 13, to watch him and Tsonga. I vividly remember sitting there in the heat just waiting for his specific match to come on.
“So, to play with him was really cool.”
This comes after Monfils rated what it’s like to play with Osaka earlier in the week.
Naomi Osaka must be considered a favourite for the US Open title
Despite her mixed doubles not going so well, Osaka should certainly still be regarded as one of the favourites to go deep in the singles draw at the US Open this year.
After all, she is a two-time champion at the event and is coming off the back of a remarkable return to form in Montreal.
There, she soared through her side of the draw, with her form only halted by the prodigious talent of Victoria Mboko.
Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images
Sadly, that match was somewhat soured by Osaka’s controversial post-match speech, which has perhaps led some people to forget just how impressive her tennis had been that week.
On hard courts, her brutal power on the serve and groundstrokes will trouble even the best players on tour.
If she can remain sharp and focused, Osaka has to be considered a threat for the title.
AloJapan.com