Golfer Rory McIIroy supports Osaka's decision to take a break from tennis

Defending US Open champion Naomi Osaka left the rest of her season in doubt following her third round loss at the 2021 US Open, but professional golfer Rory Mcllroy believes the Japanese superstar has the right to do what she thinks is right for her.

Osaka was close to tears during her post-match press conference after her loss to Leylah Fernandez, stating that she was unsure of when she would return to playing competitive tennis. Her decision has been criticized by many, but Mcllroy is in full support of the World No.3 taking time off and not letting her results define her.

"I spoke about this in 2019 about separating who I am as a golfer and who I am as a person and trying to not let that define me, and it seems what Naomi is going through at the minute is that same thing," said the four-time major winner.

"How can I play tennis and enjoy it and not let the results define who I am... I think everyone just needs to let her have time to figure that out."

Mcllroy stated he had experienced similar difficulties in his career, but believed Osaka would be able to persevere and come back with a renewed love for the sport.

"She seems like a really smart girl, and hopefully she'll be able to do it and come back and start enjoying the game just like when she picked the racket up when she was a little girl," added the former world number one.