Serena Williams Defends Naomi Osaka, Calls Out Double Standards After Controversial WTA Final

 In her first public statement addressing the recent controversy surrounding Naomi Osaka, tennis legend Serena Williams has come forward in strong defense of her fellow athlete — and is calling out what she says is a clear case of bias and double standards.

The moment in question occurred during the WTA 500 final in Toronto last week, where Osaka faced rising Canadian star Victoria Mboko. Osaka, after leading early in the match, ultimately trailed 1–5 in the third set before appearing visibly disengaged. She did not participate in the post-match handshake, nor did she attend the press conference — leading to immediate backlash from commentators and fans, some accusing her of “giving up.”

While Osaka has yet to comment publicly, the criticism has been swift and — according to Serena Williams — deeply unfair.

“I know Naomi,” Williams said in a recent interview with Tennis Daily. “I know her heart, I know her game, and I know the pressure she’s been under for years. What happened in Toronto wasn’t about poor sportsmanship — it was about exhaustion, emotion, and a system that doesn’t offer enough compassion for athletes who don’t fit the mold.”

Serena didn’t stop there.

“Let’s be honest — if this were a different player, one with a different background, the reaction would’ve been softer. There is clear favoritism in how athletes are judged. Naomi has been scrutinized more than most — and it’s not just about tennis. It’s about who she is, and what she represents.”

Williams also took aim at the media coverage of the incident, calling it “selectively aggressive.”

“When certain players express frustration or emotion on court, they’re called ‘competitive.’ When Naomi does it, it’s ‘ungrateful’ or ‘unprofessional.’ That double standard has followed her from the beginning.”

The moment drew emotional resonance as Serena herself has experienced similar criticism — perhaps most infamously during her 2018 US Open final against Osaka, a match that remains one of the most polarizing in tennis history.

“I’ve been there,” Serena added. “I’ve been called names, painted as the villain — just for standing up, for feeling something real. Naomi is not alone. And I’ll always stand by her.”

Osaka’s team has not confirmed whether she will speak out or issue a formal statement, but fans around the world have already begun rallying around her with hashtags like #StandWithNaomi and #LetPlayersBreathe.

As for Victoria Mboko, the 20-year-old champion has stayed graceful amid the storm, saying only:

“I respect Naomi a lot. Everyone has their battles. I hope she’s okay.”

Williams ended her interview with a message to the public and the press:

“Before you judge, ask why you’re judging harder. Some of us aren’t allowed to just lose a match — we have to lose with a smile, or else we’re branded forever.”