Naomi Osaka Loses French Open First Round Amid Performance Struggles

Naomi Osaka suffered a first-round defeat at the 2025 French Open against Paula Badosa, marking a disappointing return to major tournament play following her maternity break. The Japanese star, who won the first set, struggled with 54 unforced errors, finger blisters caused by the clay surface, and emotional distress, culminating in tears during the post-match press conference where she expressed frustration at disappointing her coach Patrick Mouratoglou and fans. Osaka also faced criticism for her mid-match manicure, where her long nails were clipped by an official, drawing negative reactions from social media users who questioned her focus and preparedness. Additionally, her cherry blossom-inspired outfit sparked mixed reactions, with some fans ridiculing the nontraditional look while others praised it, though it did not translate into success on the court. Osaka's challenges reflect ongoing struggles with form and mental health, reminiscent of her 2021 withdrawal from the French Open due to anxiety. Despite recent title success at a smaller clay event, her inconsistent performance at Roland Garros underscores the difficulty of regaining top form after her break.