Tennis legend Martina Navratilova insults Naomi Osaka for being ‘out of shape’ in Australian Open loss, six months after having a baby

Tennis icon Martina Navratilova has expressed her disapproval of Naomi Osaka’s physical condition following her defeat to Caroline Garcia at the Australian Open. Despite Osaka’s past successes at Melbourne Park, Navratilova, considered one of the greatest tennis players, believes her current fitness level is subpar.

In an interview with the Tennis Channel, Navratilova characterized Osaka’s performance as a B-plus tennis-wise but an overall C, emphasizing that Osaka struggled to reach the ball due to being out of shape. Navratilova expressed surprise at Osaka’s decision to play without being in top shape and stressed the importance of improved fitness, acknowledging Osaka’s recent childbirth but comparing her to Elina Svitolina, who, according to Navratilova, appeared more fit despite also recently becoming a mother.

Fans had mixed reactions to Navratilova’s comments on social media, with some defending her assessment based on her extensive tennis experience. Despite Osaka feeling positive about her return, she admitted frustration at not winning matches and acknowledged her delusional belief that she could have won the tournament.