Naomi Osaka has fired back on social media after claiming to see someone describe her as a “fluke”.
Osaka is a former world No 1 and a four-time Grand Slam champion, with only five women this century winning more major singles titles than her.
The Japanese is one of the most successful players of her generation and is now closing in on a return to the top 50 following the birth of her first child last summer.
Osaka has had a stop-start season, failing to build momentum at points, and impressed with three strong wins at the China Open.
However, her campaign ended in disappointment after she was forced to retire at one set all in her fourth round clash against Coco Gauff.
Taking to social media earlier today, the 26-year-old was quick to respond after allegedly seeing harsh criticism of her, most likely on social media.
Writing on Threads, she commented: “I just saw someone call me a fluke.
“How is it possible to be a fluke with 4 grand slams, lighting the Olympic torch, beating multiple top 20 opponents and being close to [the] top 50 the year after giving birth?
“Foh, you couldn’t even touch one of my accomplishments with your fingernail.”
Osaka then posted a screenshot of her Threads post on her Instagram story with the comment: “did I lieeee????”
The Japanese is now up to 58th in the WTA Live Rankings, having entered the China Open as the world No 73.
The WTA 1000 event in Beijing was the first tournament since the Italian Open that she was able to win three consecutive matches – dropping just one set across her victories – though the manner of her exit has raised concerns.
Osaka is next set to play at the Wuhan Open next week, though a withdrawal would not be a surprise considering she looked in considerable pain towards the end of her match versus Gauff.
The China Open was the first event the former world No 1 played under the guidance of new coach Patrick Mouratoglogu, who joined her set-up following her split with long-time coach Wim Fissette.
Under Fissette, Osaka won the 2020 US Open and 2021 Australian Open titles, though the pair called time on their partnership after her US Open round two loss to Karolina Muchova this summer.
