Naomi Osaka was left in tears over the way her first grand slam title ended.
Osaka, 20, beat Serena Williams 6-2, 6-4 in the finals of the US Open on Saturday, but the ending was marred by controversy. The controversy was so strong that it led to booing from the fans, all of which prevented Osaka from being able to enjoy the moment of her triumph.
She was seen crying while Williams received the runner-up trophy.
What a scene to start the trophy presentation: boos, Osaka in tears behind her visor, Serena puts her arm around her. pic.twitter.com/nviG83cjJR
— Nick Zaccardi (@nzaccardi) September 8, 2018
Osaka was also unable to answer the first question she received from ESPN’s Tom Rinaldi during the trophy presentation interview.
“I’m gonna sort of defer from your question, I’m sorry,” Osaka apologized. “I know that everyone was cheering for her and I’m sorry it had to end like this. I just want to say thank you for watching the match.”
Osaka later was able to answer questions and said it was an honor to be able to face Serena, to whom she has looked up.
