On Osaka; Family Man Season 2

Heard just now that Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the US Open.

I was stunned by this news. Many a times, I had given Naomi’s reference to my daughter who is learning Tennis — as someone she needs to look up to, learn about grit, a fighting spirit, and a tireless player. Her display of #blacklivesmatter and withdrawing from French Open strengthened my message. But this news has forced me to evaluate my opinion.

Naomi, by withdrawing from Wimbledon — arguably the most prestigious of the Grand Slams — has demonstrated that players who have reached a certain level don’t bother themselves how the world (and young kids / players) look up to them. I can understand if an aged player takes that decision because he/she wants to rest and focus on the big opportunities, but a player of Naomi’s age and health (physical) does not bode well.

I am also a fan of Ashleigh Barty — and commend her for going through the motions during the clay season and withdrawing because of a true physical injury — at a point where it was aggravated.

Family Man Season 2 on Amazon Prime has received rave reviews. No idea why?

I was very much looking forward to this season after watching all the trailers and promos preceding its release. The premise was promising and the humor exciting. But both items fell flat for me.

The first part of the season quite literally dragged, with unrealistic characters (young successful CEO, family counselor), and family matters. I did like some nuanced conversations, just felt that such long duration was not needed. The excitement I so awaited to see the cat/mouse chase between Raji and Srikant never really materialized. And the “coincidence” factor in this season was just too much to handle. Chellam literally was omniscient. Picking up a couple of marijuana smoking kids solved the kidnapping riddle. Srikant is definitely blessed.

And the ending — few shots and the plane goes down. The end! Whatever happened to Sameer?

Didn’t like it.