Australian Open: John McEnroe questions Naomi Osaka’s attitude; says she’s put herself in ‘difficult position’ by ‘bringing mental health to forefront’
- Seven-time major winner says Osaka needs to ‘be prepared to handle’ the increased spotlight, after her third-round exit in Melbourne
- ‘The fact we’re complimenting her about fighting a lot worries me, because that should be par for the course,’ McEnroe adds
John McEnroe has questioned Naomi Osaka’s attitude after her shock early exit from the Australian Open on Friday night.
The four-times grand slam champion, who returned to action in January from a four-month absence because of mental health issues, was beaten 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 (10-5) by unseeded American Amanda Anisimova in the third round.
“It’s a tough one for Osaka, we’ll see how she reacts to it,” former world No 1 McEnroe told Eurosport. “Osaka’s in an extremely difficult position that in some ways she’s put herself in, so this is another hurdle she’s gonna have to overcome mentally.
“But unfortunately, bringing mental health to the forefront, while it’s a great idea and obviously during this pandemic for citizens all over world, it’s gotta be something that’s looked at, but now we’re gonna be discussing it more.”
“How’s she gonna handle losing matches? Losing early?” 66-year-old American McEnroe added. “Is she gonna play a lot of events before the French open? Will she play Wimbledon? She’s gonna be talked about quite a bit.
