Naomi Osaka’s US Open Campaign Ends Early with Loss to Karolína Muchová

Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka’s journey at the 2024 US Open came to a disappointing end in the second round. On Thursday, Osaka faced a tough opponent in Czech Republic’s Karolína Muchová and succumbed to a straight-sets defeat, 6-3, 7-6(5).

Osaka, who has previously clinched the US Open title in 2018 and 2020, has struggled to recapture her peak form this season. After taking time off for maternity leave and missing last year’s tournament following the birth of her daughter, Osaka has faced challenges re-adjusting to competitive play.

In her post-match reflections, Osaka expressed how deeply she feels the impact of her losses. “It’s a little rough because I do take these losses really personally,” she admitted. “It’s like a dramatic word, but I feel like my heart dies every time I lose. I’ve been trying to be more mature and learn and talk more about them.”

Osaka revealed her struggles with nerves during high-pressure moments, noting that she may need more match experience to cope with the intensity of big-stage performances. Despite her disappointment, she remains proud of her efforts and the opportunities she’s had throughout the season. “Honestly, if I get past the disappointment, I feel pretty proud of myself to have gotten that many opportunities while still feeling like I could have played much better,” she said.

Muchová’s victory was marked by strategic play and resilience. The Czech player broke Osaka’s formidable serve in the seventh game of the first set, which was characterized by minimal errors from both sides. Muchová then secured another break in the final game of the set, and she continued her strong performance into the second set.

Muchová initially took control, winning five games in a row and creating three break points in the second game. Although Osaka managed to level the score at 1-1, the set remained competitive. Osaka broke Muchová’s serve in the ninth game, giving her a chance to serve for the set. However, she failed to capitalize on three set points, allowing Muchová to break back and force a tie-break.

In the tie-break, Osaka managed to save two match points but ultimately faltered on the third, sending a forehand wide and ending the match in Muchová’s favor.

The victory was crucial for Muchová, who is defending a significant number of ranking points after reaching the semifinals last year. Despite a career-high ranking of No. 8, injuries have caused her to drop to No. 52 and limited her tournament appearances this season. Muchová’s performance at the US Open was a significant step towards regaining her former ranking.

“I was just really trying to be focused,” Muchová stated post-match. “I know she’s an amazing player and that I have to bring the A-game to have a chance. So I was just trying to be really focused on myself. I knew I have to serve well because her serve is really good. So I was just trying to be locked in and focused out there.”

For Osaka, the loss is a setback in what has been an uneven season. Despite the defeat, she remains optimistic and views the season as a valuable learning experience. “I feel faster. I feel better, but I lost in the second round,” the 26-year-old said. “So it’s a little rough but, also, it’s been fun playing a lot of tournaments. It’s been a commitment for sure, but I’ve been able to go to different cities that I’ve never been to.”

Osaka’s early exit from the US Open marks another chapter in her ongoing quest to regain top form, while Muchová’s victory provides a much-needed boost in her efforts to climb back up the rankings.