Naomi Osaka's French Open ended Monday with a loss to top seed Aryna Sabalenka, 7-5, 6-3, but the four-time Grand Slam champion left Paris with a new perspective.
Years of mental health struggles and a break for motherhood have reshaped her outlook. The 28-year-old described herself as "enlightened," saying she’s at peace with the emotional swings that once defined her career.
"If I lost this match when I was younger, I'd shut myself in my room," Osaka said. "Now I feel like obviously I love tennis, and I'm trying my best."
The former world number one said her priorities have shifted beyond results and rankings, citing her daughter at home as her greatest source of happiness.
While Sabalenka's power ended her run under the lights of Court Philippe Chatrier, Osaka called this her best performance on clay, reaching the fourth round for the first time.
Osaka also highlighted the tournament’s decision to schedule the women's match in a prime night slot, calling it an honor and urging organizers to continue featuring women in showcase times.
"I have to take the positives from it," she said.