French Open officials defend handling of Osaka situation

French Open officials believe they handled the situation regarding Naomi Osaka at Roland Garros properly defending the system which saw a fine and threat of expulsion from the tournament.

A hot topic during the opening week of action in Paris, it saw Osaka withdraw from proceedings and brought eyes on the tournament as well as debate on media in tennis and mental health.

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“We really tried to engage with Naomi several times, several ways, including on the practice courts, including in writing,” said Amelie Oudea-Castera, the FTF Director General.

“On the $15,000 fine, you noticed we did not want to put that fine at the maximum,” said Oudea-Castera. “On purpose we only wanted to be at 15 because we wanted to send a message that we wouldn’t go to a default right away. We wanted to have a progressive escalation should she continue not to commit to her obligations.”

“We wanted to have a progressive escalation should she continue not to commit to her obligations,” she added.

“We did it the right way. What we did all together with the Slams, we had to do it. We did the right choice, even if you feel like we shouldn’t say anything … regarding Naomi," said FFT President, Gilles Moretton,

He also added that she has since been checked up on and that a positive update was forthcoming as a result.

“She’s in Florida, having rest with the family. That’s the most important thing for us,”