Imagine waking up at 5 a.m. just to get poked multiple times for drug tests — that’s exactly what Naomi Osaka faces during tournaments like the French Open.
Speaking candidly on the final day of interviews before the 2025 French Open began, Osaka didn’t hold back about her frustrating experiences with anti-doping controls.
Struggling with Veins and Early Wake-Up Calls
Osaka shared that anti-doping officials come early, often around 5 a.m., to collect blood and urine samples.
For many, this might sound routine, but for her, it’s quite the ordeal.
“They’re kind of scary,” she admitted, explaining that her veins are notoriously difficult to find, which makes the process even more uncomfortable.
She recalled how testers often struggle to locate her veins, sometimes poking her three or more times trying different arms.
“One person once told me it was like a Japanese thing,” Osaka joked, unsure if that was true but highlighting just how tricky it can be.
Bruises and Uncomfortable Experiences
Last year’s experience was especially tough for Osaka.
She described how one tester couldn’t find her veins at all, leaving her with large bruises on her arms for quite some time.
Thankfully, this year’s testing team was different, but the early wake-up and repeated needle jabs still made for a stressful morning.
“I always have to tell them, hey, my playing arm is my right arm, I prefer the left,” she explained, trying to avoid injury to the arm she uses most on the court.
Focus Shifts to Upcoming Match
Despite these early-morning disruptions, Osaka’s focus quickly shifts back to tennis.
Her first match at the 2025 French Open will be against Spain’s 10th seed, Paula Badosa, scheduled for Monday afternoon.
Whatever the result, Osaka—and her fans—are hoping that the match will be less painful than the drug testing routine.
What Would You Think About Waking Up for Drug Tests?
Can you imagine being jolted awake before dawn only to endure multiple needle pricks? It’s certainly not an easy part of life for professional athletes like Osaka.
What’s your take on the anti-doping process? Share your thoughts in the comments or send a message via WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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