NEW YORK—Naomi Osaka showed power, poise and a politeness dismissing her tennis idol, Serena Williams, in the US Open final to become the first Japanese player to capture a Grand Slam singles crown.
During the trophy presentation, Osaka apologized to New York fans, some of whom were booing officials after the controversial conclusion to the match.
Watch: Osaka Slams Serena To Win US Open
"I know everyone was cheering for her and I'm sorry it had to end like this," said Osaka, elicting a rousing ovation from the crowd."
The 20-year-old Osaka grew teary-eyed recounting why she apologized.
"Your question is making me emotional," said Osaka, whose eyes welled with tears in the post-match press conference. "Okay, because I know that, like, she really wanted to have the 24th Grand Slam, right? Everyone knows this. It's on the commercials, it's everywhere.
"Like, when I step onto the court, I feel like a different person, right? I'm not a Serena fan. I'm just a tennis player playing another tennis player. But then when I hugged her at the net (tearing up)... Anyway, when I hugged her at the net, I felt like a little kid again."
Photo credit: US Open Facebook