Naomi Osaka issues public apology to Victoria Mboko after Canadian Open final, ‘I want to say sorry’

Naomi Osaka’s apology to Victoria Mboko has become one of those rare sports moments that tugs at your heartstrings. After an emotionally charged Canadian Open final—where the 18-year-old Canadian sensation triumphed over Osaka—the four-time Grand Slam champion released a heartfelt apology that’s resonating with fans everywhere.

It all began in Montreal, at the National Bank Open (also known as the Canadian Open), where Mboko, ranked outside the top 80 at the start of 2025, powered through a stunning Cinderella run—defeating Grand Slam winners like Sofia Kenin, Coco Gauff, Elena Rybakina, and finally Osaka—to claim her first WTA title.

But what caught everyone’s attention wasn’t just the record-breaking upset. It was Osaka’s post-match moment: she delivered a very brief thank-you speech and, in the rush of emotion, failed to congratulate Mboko. Critics were quick to call the moment tone-deaf, and some pundits didn’t mince words—labeling it “rude and entitled”.

Fast forward a couple of days, and Osaka stepped up on social media—specifically Threads—to set things right. She wrote: “Thanks Montreal, it’s been a great run. I also want to say sorry and congratulations to Victoria. You played a great match and have an amazing career ahead! I realize I didn’t congratulate you on the court. Honestly, I was in a daze…” She added that she’d been trying to keep her speech short to avoid past awkward moments, such as her speeches at Indian Wells 2018 and the so-called “Jenny/Jennifer” mix-up in Australia 2021.

While the brief on-court moment may have felt abrupt, Osaka’s full apology is being seen as a graceful, honest act of sportsmanship, especially in light of her own well-known struggles with the pressures of public life. Victoria Mboko, in turn, has handled the moment with maturity, expressing admiration for Osaka even after defeating her idol—a moment that reflects the best of tennis spirit.

At the end of the day, the headlines may have started with a stumble—but they’re wrapping up with compassion, growth, and respect. And honestly? That’s exactly the kind of story that reminds us why we love sports—and the people behind them.