French Open’s treatment of Naomi Osaka is shameful moment for tennis

The world No 2 has been treated as a threat, a familiar reception that black athletes receive when they step outside the box

As the fallout from Naomi Osaka’s decision to withdraw from Roland Garros continued, Osaka’s fellow athletes rallied behind her to offer their support. Shortly after her first round win over Irina Camelia Begu on Monday night, Serena Williams said she empathised with Osaka: “The only thing I feel is that I feel for Naomi,” she said. “I feel like I wish I could give her a hug because I know what it’s like. Like I said, I’ve been in those positions. We have different personalities, and people are different.

Others responded directly to Osaka on social media. NBA guard Kyrie Irving, who himself has been fined a total of $60,000 for skipping media obligations this season, commented: “We are all with you Queen. Just be you, that will always be enough.” Meanwhile, Stephen Curry said: “You shouldn’t ever have to make a decision like this – but so damn impressive taking the high road when the powers that be don’t protect their own. Major respect.”