At the French Open 2021, Naomi Osaka had called off her campaign before the second round, citing mental health concerns. Before that, she boycotted the media duties as it put undue pressure on her. Seemingly, it hurt her cordial relations with many journalists, and a couple of them have now decided to hit back.

Recently, Osaka appeared on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2021 edition. She tweeted the magazine covers and stated that she is the “First Haitian and Japanese woman on the cover.”

After this, reporter Clay Travis pointed out that the Japanese star has launched a reality show, a Barbie, and now is on the SI swimsuit issue since boycotting the media. In addition to that, renowned journalist Megyn Kelly reminded Twitteratis about the “cover of (& interview in) Vogue Japan and Time Mag!”

Consequently, the four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka tried to enlighten the journalist with facts. However, it could not help keep Kelly away from making crude comments.

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Naomi Osaka and journalist in a heated battle after Sports Illustrated Swimsuit 2021 issue launch

Naomi Osaka, 23, has always been absolute and upfront about her feelings on and off the court. Probably, it is one of the reasons why she has a tremendous following so early in her career.

But despite her nervousness in front of the camera, Osaka has never been shy to call out the wrong. Naturally, she asked Kelly to check her facts.

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“Seeing as you’re a journalist, I would’ve assumed you would take the time to research what the lead times are for magazines. If you did that, you would’ve found out I shot all of my covers last year. Instead, your first reaction is to hop on here and spew negativity. Do better, Megan,” Osaka answered her.

Afterwards, the current WTA World No.2 blocked Kelly, and it gave the journalist a chance to retort.

“Poor Naomi Osaka blocked me while taking a shot at me (guess she’s only tough on the courts). She is apparently arguing that she shot her many covers before publicly claiming she was too socially anxious to deal with press. Truth is she just doesn’t like questions she can’t control. Admit it,” Kelly replied.

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Following that, 18-time Grand Slam winner Martina Navratilova came in support of the Japanese star. She wrote, “A**h*** much, Megyn?!? You have no idea what you are talking about. But go ahead- take your shot. It missed badly!!!”

Furthermore, another famous reporter, Piers Morgan, joined in behind Kelly. Agreeing with her, he said, “Yep, and she just blocked me too. The only media Ms Osaka wants to tolerate are sycophantic magazine editors telling her how perfect she is.”

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All in all, the Japanese No.1 would offer next to zero attention to them as she prepares for her return on tennis courts at Tokyo Olympics. Hopefully, some good tennis from her racquet might put a cover over all of this soon.