Naomi Osaka has by no means been shy about her ambitions to return to the highest of the game she as soon as dominated. The four-time champion, who beat Lina Glushko 6-4, 6-4 in her season opener on Monday in Auckland, says she will not take it straightforward as she begins her second season again. from maternity go away in 2024.
“I do not suppose I am the kind of participant to play,” Osaka, 27, informed reporters, in keeping with the AP, earlier than his look on the ASB Traditional. “I’ve a number of respect for all of the gamers on the tour, however the level of my life I am at proper now, if I am not above a sure stage, I do not see myself enjoying for some time.
I want to spend time with my daughter when I’m not the place I feel I ought to be and the place I really feel I could be.”
Osaka moved up the rankings in 2024, transferring from exterior the Prime 800 to his present spot at age 57, and he feels the season was a great step in the best route, even when he did not attain the form of success he is used to.
Energy from Osaka 💪@naomiosaka | #ASBClassic25 pic.twitter.com/ql0RlUlQpw
— wta (@WTA) December 30, 2024
“I feel 2024 has humbled me, however I additionally really feel like I’ve grown quite a bit,” he mentioned. “I labored more durable than earlier than. So in that regard, I feel it was very painful to not get the outcomes that I needed, however I really feel like I am rising and studying and I am very completely happy this 12 months.”
Seventh-seeded Osaka will face Austria’s Julia Grabher within the second spherical in Auckland. Osaka fired seven aces and gained 77 p.c of her first factors to earn her victory in 85 minutes.
