Naomi Osaka Shows Up To Watch Jannik Sinner’s Match Against Felix Auger-Aliassime Just 1 Day After Brutal US Open Defeat

Moving past setbacks and focusing on what lies ahead can be crucial for a player’s mindset.

Japanese star Naomi Osaka, though not returning to the court immediately after her US Open semifinal exit, made her way back to Arthur Ashe Stadium to watch the men’s semifinal between Jannik Sinner and Félix Auger-Aliassime.

Naomi Osaka Quickly Reemerges at US Open Following Exit

Putting a turbulent past behind her, Osaka entered the North American hard-court swing with renewed focus and purpose. After a second-round exit in Washington DC, she bounced back strongly at the WTA 1000 event in Montreal, enjoying a deep run before finishing as runner-up.

Riding the wave of momentum, the four-time Grand Slam champion glided through Flushing Meadows. En route to the semifinals, she overcame top opponents, including Daria Kasatkina, home favorite Coco Gauff, and 11th seed Karolína Muchová.

Even in the semifinals against Amanda Anisimova, she displayed determination, taking the first set 7-6(4) and showing grit in the second before dropping it in a tie-break 6-7(3). However, the American proved too strong in the decider, sealing it 6-3 and advancing to her second consecutive final of the season.

Although Osaka’s US Open run ended in the semifinals, she quickly moved past it. The Japanese star was seen in the Arthur Ashe stands, enjoying a drink while watching Sinner face Auger-Aliassime in the men’s semifinal.

Good to see Naomi Osaka still enjoying the US Open 👋 pic.twitter.com/OXhjXicfy7

— US Open Tennis (@usopen) September 6, 2025

Osaka’s US Open campaign likely boosted her confidence, marking her fifth Grand Slam semifinal appearance. The run also propelled her to No. 14 in the WTA live rankings, and looking ahead, she will aim to return to the top 10.

MORE: Naomi Osaka Challenges Jannik Sinner to a ‘Rematch’ As He Teases Her About Her ‘Talent’ After Time Together in New York

How Did Naomi Osaka’s Fun Ping Pong Battle With Jannik Sinner Ahead of the US Open Go?

The lead-up to a Grand Slam isn’t just about intense preparation. It can also feature lighthearted moments among the pros. Case in point: Osaka and Sinner faced off in a playful ping pong duel at the ‘Annual Petit Slam,’ held at New York’s Baccarat Hotel ahead of the US Open.

The casual gathering gave players and guests a chance to unwind before the tournament’s pressures began. Osaka and Sinner drew attention as they picked up the iconic red paddles for a spirited ping-pong clash. Sinner donned a white polo and beige trousers, while Osaka donned a sleek black, cropped jacket and cap.

 

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The moment highlights the camaraderie shared off the court between the two four-time Grand Slam champions. While Osaka’s bid for a fifth title ended at the US Open, Sinner remains focused on reaching his second consecutive final and defending the title.