Tokyo Olympics: Tennis star Naomi Osaka eliminated, netizens post heartfelt messages

Japanese tennis player Naomi Osaka was eliminated from the women's singles tournament at the Tokyo Olympics, prompting netizens to post heartfelt messages on social media to express their sorrow. Naomi was defeated in the third round of the Tokyo Olympics by Czech tennis player Marketa Vondrousova. The 23-year-old, who is ranked world No. 1 by the Women's Tennis Association, exited the main event after losing the first two sets 6-1 and 6-4. Naomi's dream of winning an Olympic gold medal at home came crashing down with her loss on Tuesday.

The Czech Republic player knocked out Naomi from the Tokyo Games on the centre court roof at Ariake Tennis Park. Naomi, who is the first Asian to crack the world No. 1 ranking in women's tennis, lost the first set after an error-filled start against Vondrousova, who did not allow the Japanese player to recover. Vondrousova won the first set 6-1. Naomi took an early lead in the second set, but she couldn't hold on for long and lost it 6-4, thus losing the eliminator. 

Netizens console Naomi

However, netizens took to social media to console the Asian superstar following her defeat to Vondrousova. Users expressed sympathy while assuring the four-time Grand Slam winner that she will bounce back in the future. The loss has come on the back of a controversial past few months for Naomi, post her revelation during the French Open earlier this year that she is battling depression and anxiety. Naomi also missed the iconic Wimbledon tournament, but returned in time for the Olympics, only to lose to a world No. 42 ranked player.

Meanwhile, American athlete Carissa Moore made history on Tuesday by becoming the first woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the surfing shortboard event. Brazilian star Italo Ferreira beat Japan's Kanoa Igarashi to win the first Olympic gold medal in the men's category of the sport. Earlier, the Chinese team won gold in a 10-metre air pistol mixed team event, which saw Russia secure a silver. Canada won its first Olympic medal in softball today as it beat Mexico 3-2 for the third spot. 

Image: AP