Naomi Osaka apologizes for on-court behavior after reaching US Open fourth round

Naomi Osaka defeated Elise Mertens in the third round of the US Open on September 5, 2026, at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. After winning the first set, Osaka struggled with unforced errors and visible frustration as Mertens claimed the second set 6-3. Osaka later apologized during an on-court interview for her behavior, citing negative self-talk that she felt set a poor example for young viewers. Her coach, Tomasz Wiktorowski, attempted to refocus her during the changeovers as her unforced error count reached 41 for the match. Osaka eventually secured the win in three sets after failing to convert three initial match points. She now advances to the fourth round, where she is scheduled to face Elena Rybakina. Rybakina remains unbeaten in sets throughout this tournament while pursuing both a deep run and a potential move to the world number one ranking.

• 6:22 AMYahoo Sports — “Very Negative”- Naomi Osaka Apologises to Kids for On-Court Behavior at US Open