Osaka Regrets “Disrespectful” Comments Following Tense Match
Naomi Osaka has apologized for “disrespecting” Sorana Cirstea after their second-round match at the Australian Open when a frosty handshake and brief exchange of words got them heated on the court.
After winning a hard-fought 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 match, a smiling Osaka came to the net for the customary post-match handshake. However, the moment was cut short as Cirstea offered a brief hand before giving the Japanese star a few choice words near the umpire’s chair.
Bafflement on Court, Apology
When asked during her on court interview what it took for her to beat Cirstea, Osaka candidly stated that it took “apparently a lot of ‘come ons’ that she was angry about.”
The interviewer pushed further and wanted to know if Cirstea was frustrated because Osaka was pumping herself up between serves.
“I think so, but like she could have asked me.” “I’m sorry,” the former world number one answered. “She’s a great player. I think this was her last Australian Open so sorry, she was mad about it.”
Later, in a post-match press conference, Osaka decided that she regretted her initial reaction, acknowledging the emotions that were involved. “I’m a little confused. I guess that emotions were very high for her. I also want to apologise,” the four-time major winner said. “I think the first couple of things that I said out on the court were disrespectful. I don’t like being disrespectful to people. That’s not what I do.”
Cirstea Downplays the Drama
Despite the awkward moment, Cirstea said there was “no drama” between the two veterans.
“It was just a five second exchange between two players that have been on a tour for a long time.” It remains in between us,” said the 35-year-old, who is scheduled to retire at the end of the 2026 season.
“Look, this is my last Australian Open”. I have been playing for 20 years. It’s more going on than a five-second discussion at the end that I had with Naomi.”
Fashion Statements and Where To Go From Here
Before the match started, Osaka turned heads when she arrived in a toned down version of her viral jellyfish inspired outfit. While she did not wear the white hat, veil or umbrella this time, fans in the stands were seen mimicking the iconic look.
“This is just something that I like to do on the court, something fun,” Osaka explained. “I don’t really talk that much, but I like to express myself through my clothes and I’m really glad that you guys loved it.”
Osaka’s eyes are now on the third round, with a dream to make it to the second week of the Australian Open for the first time since her title run in 2021. She is to face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis, who beat Germany’s Laura Siegemund.
Saurabh is a passionate tennis content writer and lifelong fan of the game. Whether it’s Grand Slam showdowns or under-the-radar rising stars, Saurabh brings the court to life with sharp analysis, breaking news, and deep-dive features. When they aren’t covering matches, you can find them practicing their topspin forehand or debating who is the GOAT over coffee. Do you enjoy tennis? Then you are in the right place.
