Naomi Osaka eliminated after second round loss to Karolina Muchova

Naomi Osaka’s Arthur Ashe homecoming has been ruined by Karolina Muchova .

The two-time champion’s first time playing on the main court at the US Open for the first time since 2022 did not go well.

Osaka , who has enjoyed the best moments of her career on the American court, wore an outlandish outfit featuring a big bow.

But unfortunately for the Japanese star, a place in the third round came gift-wrapped for Muchova, who dispatched her 6-3 7-6 (5).

Still, these are encouraging baby steps for Osaka on her return to the sport following the birth of her first child. The 26-year-old has also regularly spoken about her mental health battles.

Muchova, a semi-finalist in New York last year, will now face Anastasia Potapova and has a presentable chance of going deep into the tournament again.

The Czech, who underwent wrist surgery in February, said: “Look around, this is unbelievable, the atmosphere and the people, it is crazy energy and I love it.

“I am really happy with how I performed today.

“This year the biggest win for me is that I can play again, I am really grateful, this is just the cherry on top to be here.”