Naomi Osaka reacts for the first time since heavy defeat to Iga Swiatek in Rome

Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Naomi Osaka explains what went wrong in her loss to Iga Swiatek

Iga Świątek made quick work of Naomi Osaka earlier tonight, wrapping up a straightforward win over the former world No. 1.

The Pole looked sharp from the start, and the final scoreline of 6-2, 6-1 reflected how much control she had throughout.

For Osaka, though, it was another disappointing result.

It’s been nearly two years since their memorable second-round clash at Roland-Garros, where Osaka pushed Świątek to three sets. It wasn’t just a good match; it was one that felt significant for both players in different ways.

This time around, it didn’t feel like the same contest. Osaka found herself outplayed from start to finish and has since offered some thoughts on why things played out the way they did.

Naomi Osaka gives her thoughts after losing to Iga Swiatek at the Italian Open

Photo by Chris Arjoon/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

After the match, Osaka faced the media in a subdued mood, answering questions with little energy and few words.

She didn’t offer much analysis of what went wrong, even saying at one point that she wasn’t sure why the match had been so lopsided.

When asked what stood out to her about the match, Osaka said: “Honestly, I’m not so sure. I think honestly, I felt like she played really well. Maybe this clay was suited a little bit more for her.

“But I also feel like, I don’t know, there’s something I could have done more, but I’m not really sure what.”

Another reporter suggested that Swiatek’s strong form in Rome might be some consolation for Osaka. She replied: “Not really, no. I’m a perfectionist.”