Australian doubles star Ellen Perez seemingly took a shot at Naomi Osaka after the Japanese's post-Montreal final speech as the Australian cheekily stated that "some women should take notes" from players who classily respond to a final loss.
Early on in the Montreal final, Osaka controlled everything and she swiftly went up by a set. But then, a complete turnaround happened after 18-year-old Canadian wildcard Victoria Mboko stormed back to win 2-6 6-4 6-1 and lift her maiden WTA 1000 crown. The Japanese, who was prevented from winning her first title on the main level since the 2021 Australian Open, spoke for only a couple of seconds during a traditional on-court speech and she didn't even mention Mboko.
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A few hours later in another Canadian city, Ben Shelton won his first Masters title after beating Karen Khachanov 6-7 (5) 6-4 7-6 (3). During the traditional post-final speech, the Russian mentioned how he knew the American was primed for great things and wished him all the best going forward. Needless to say, the 22-year-old absolutely loved and also had some kind words for his 29-year-old rival.
Perez shades Osaka
"Class act speeches from both Karen Khachanov and Ben Shelton tonight after a terrific mens final in Toronto," a tennis fan posted on X after the Toronto Masters final.
Reacting to it, Perez - who has eight doubles titles in her collection and has been ranked as high as No. 7, wrote: "Some women should take notes."
While the multiple Grand Slam doubles semifinalist didn't directly mention Osaka, it was pretty clear to whom she was referring to. And some fans weren't thrilled by it.
Meanwhile, Osaka congratulated Mboko in her post-final presser and insisted that she "completely forgot" to congratulate the 18-year-old on the court.
