Naomi Osaka Wins Best Female Athlete At ESPYS, Says Past Year Has Been 'Really Tough'

Naomi Osaka made her first ESPY Awards one to remember after shaking the sports world in recent weeks.

In her first public appearance since withdrawing from the French Open and Wimbledon over mental health concerns, the four-time Grand Slam champion attended the show on Saturday night in New York City, where she picked up the award for Best Athlete, Womens Sports.

Arriving on the red carpet in a bold black and white striped top and a green Louis Vuitton skirt, the tennis superstar was accompanied by rapper boyfriend Cordae at the show, which honors the years top athletes and sports moments.

Osaka, who has been open about her struggles with depression and social anxiety, powered through her nerves to give a short but sweet acceptance speech later in the evening.

I just really want to not say a long speech because Im a bit nervous I know this year has been really, it hasnt even finished, but its been really tough for a lot of us, she said on stage from The Rooftop at Pier 17. For me, I just want to say, I really love you guys and this is my first ESPYS so its really cool to be surrounded by all these incredible athletes. I think all of you guys are really cool and I watch some of you on TV so its really surreal to be here ... Thank you so much.

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