“I can’t feel happy”: Clara Tauson expresses feelings after winning ASB Classic following Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal

Denmark’s Clara Tauson has expressed her feelings about the final of the ASB Classic against Japan’s Naomi Osaka. The 22-year-old managed to lift the title after the former world number one was forced to retire despite winning the first set with a score of 6-4.

Tauson talked to the media after the match and apologized for the final. She admitted that she was the second-best in the first set of the final and that it was the ‘worst’ final she played. She also stated that she ‘cant feel happy’ after taking part in the competition.

“First of all I have to say I’m really sorry about this final,” she said. “Naomi was playing some great tennis today. That’s the worst final I’ve ever played emotionally. I can’t feel happy. I’m just sad about what happened today. Im happy about the week I had. I’m happy that I won… but not really.”

The result is a significant blow for Osaka, who had been hoping to improve her performance this season after having a rather below-par outing in 2024. After retiring from the final, the former world number one is now a doubt for the upcoming Australian Open as well. The first Grand Slam of the year will begin on January 12, where players from all over the world will participate to showcase their talent and secure the ultimate prize.

Osaka also talked after the match and apologised to the fans for the way the final ended. The former world number one did not disclose what kind of injury she sustained in the final but stated that she was ‘grateful’ after qualifying for the final.

"I just want to thank everyone for welcoming me to such a beautiful city and I had a lot of fun playing here," she said. "I'm really sorry about how it ended but I hope you enjoyed the tennis that we did play. I'm just grateful to be here."