U.S. Open champion Osaka sets sights on Tokyo Olympics

Ah, but which nation will she play for?

The one that is putting the most moolah in her pocket. Do a side by side comparison of her J and US sponsorship deals and you will find the answer. Got to credit Mr. Francois for the way he set up his daughter's career.

For her to choose to represent Japan is a double-edge sword, as she is finding out. now.

The hyped up scrutiny and pressure while she is in favor in Japan is already taking its toll on her performance.

cracaphat: ".She can walk into the team and be the face for Japan,who'll be touting how international Japan is with her as the figurehead."

Until she loses a match and doesn't the gold -- then she'll "not be Japanese" in the minds of many here, whereas the US would stand by her no matter what. As has been pointed out, being a major figure representing Japan (your choice or not) is already hurting her, figuratively and literally. When she ducked out last week because of illness, and again this week because of her back industry, I LITERALLY saw some people who praised her and patted themselves on the back for her US Open victory stop being fans.

Whichever side she chooses, and I hope it's not just for money, I hope they support her through thick and thin, but I know Japan won't if she does not win gold. Hell, look what Mori said to Asada Mao when she got silver and Mori wasn't even running things or as senile at the time, and she is "pure" Japanese.