French Open Live: Ruud Calls for Doctor as Star Breaks Down in Tears During Tennis Clash
Naomi Osaka has defended a social gathering she hosted during the French Open after online criticism over a dinner she described as a “black party” with fellow tennis players. The event reportedly included Coco Gauff, Gael Monfils, Taylor Townsend, Christopher Eubanks and Asia Muhammad, and images from the dinner sparked debate on social media.
Osaka said the gathering was not intended to divide or exclude anyone, but to recognize shared experiences and visibility for Black players in tennis. In her response online, she reflected on growing up without many players who looked like her and said that being a minority in the sport can feel isolating. She added that there is a sense of fellowship and camaraderie among Black players that does not require explanation, and that simply knowing someone else has faced similar challenges can make a person feel less alone.
In a further post, Osaka said she had witnessed discrimination against her father while growing up, including incidents in which police were called to a tennis court. She said there are many things she would apologize for in life, but not for celebrating Black identity or appreciating the progress that has been made. Osaka also criticized those who interpreted the dinner as exclusionary, saying the gathering was meant as a celebration rather than a rejection of others.
The comments have drawn attention because Osaka has long spoken publicly about race, identity and representation in tennis. Her latest response places the dinner in that broader context, framing it as a moment of community and recognition among Black athletes rather than a controversy over separation.
