Naomi Osaka Fans Call Out ESPN Commentators Over ‘Mental Health’ Remarks During US Open Match: ‘Do Better’

Naomi Osaka

Naomi Osaka Fans Call Out ESPN Commentators Over ‘Mental Health’ Remarks During US Open Match: Do Better

Naomi Osaka may have walked away with the win, but some fans watching her US Open match were not happy with the commentary surrounding her performance.

The tennis star defeated Elise Mertens to advance at the tournament, but conversation online quickly shifted to the announcers covering the match. Several viewers accused the commentators of focusing excessively on Osaka’s emotions and mental state while she competed. One viewer wrote,

“The commentators for this match were some straight haters and criticized Naomi the whole game. Do better.”

Another fan took issue specifically with what they said they heard about Osaka’s mental health, writing,

“You can’t say someone is having a ‘mental issue’ because they are frustrated with their play.”

Others echoed the criticism. One viewer called the commentary “INSUFFERABLE,” adding, “Talking about her mental health?! Saying she’s pouting? Like are you serious?!” Another wrote that the announcers “literally will not stop talking about her mental state, her emotions, and her reactions.”

The criticism is particularly notable given Osaka’s openness about her mental health throughout her career. The four-time Grand Slam champion previously stepped away from competition and spoke publicly about experiencing depression and anxiety, helping spark a larger conversation about athletes’ mental well-being and the pressures they face.

It’s unclear from the social-media posts which commentator made the remarks being criticized, and the exact wording from the broadcast has not been independently verified. Still, the reaction from some viewers was clear, with fans calling on ESPN and the US Open to reconsider how Osaka’s emotions and mental health are discussed during matches.