Naomi Osaka was offered a dose of reality after her winning start against Serena Williams was ended, but the Japanese claimed defeat meant she "accomplished [her] dream".
Two-time grand slam champion Osaka will return to the world number one ranking next week, yet she crashed out of the Rogers Cup on Friday in a 6-3 6-4 defeat to Williams.
The all-time WTA great is an icon for Osaka; however, the 21-year-old had won their only two prior meetings - including an incredible US Open final in which Williams repeatedly ranted at the officials.
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Humbled this week in Toronto, Osaka acknowledged this loss belatedly provided the experience she had always anticipated when facing Williams.
"For me, it's always fun to play her," she told a news conference. "This is someone that I looked up to forever.
"And, actually, this is how I thought the first time I played her in Miami was going to go.
"So in a weird way, losing today, I accomplished my dream. I know that sounds kind of weird, but if there's anyone in the world that I would want to lose to - of course I would never want to lose - I don't mind losing to her, because I learned a lot.
"And this is someone that I kind of modelled my game after when I was little. So this is such a big learning experience for me."
Learned so much in the past couple of days. Played the g.o.a.t , came back to #1 AND most importantly started smiling again during matches. I’m so happy honestly can’t wait to play more matches and learn from life. Thank you Toronto see you next time pic.twitter.com/YpX13VnW5o
— NaomiOsaka (@Naomi_Osaka_) August 10, 2019
Osaka said Williams played "amazing, which is what she does", and the victor agreed her level had improved from the pair of 2018 defeats.
"I knew [Osaka's] game a little bit more, so that's a little easier," Williams said. "And I'm just overall a little bit better. You know, last year was a miraculous year for me, to be honest.
"So I know her game. I watch her a lot. I knew what I needed to do to hopefully try to get a win today, and it helped a little bit."
As Williams advances to face Marie Bouzkova, Osaka will work to defend her restored ranking more successfully than last time.
Osaka's form fell off a cliff after taking number one with the Australian Open title and she later conceded the pressure had been tough to handle.
She explained on Friday: "I guess I'm excited. But also, at the same time, I feel like that's a position that I think requires a lot of work and a lot of just hardheadedness.
"I can't really let what other people say affect me, and I just have to keep working hard and putting effort. I think that the results, of course, will show, but I have to not think too much about winning or losing."