© Getty Images Sport – Phil Walter
Naomi Osaka has confirmed her first post-Australian Open tournament as the former world No. 1 accepted a main draw wildcard into the Abu Dhabi Open.
Osaka, 26, played her first tournament as a mom at the Brisbane International before returning to the Australian Open, where she is a two-time champion. After playing her first two tournaments back in Australia, Osaka is now set to go to the Middle East to continue her comeback.
In Abu Dhabi, the 26-year-old Japanese will be making her debut appearance. In the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Osaka will face some tough competition as Elena Rybakina, Ons Jabeur, and Maria Sakkari are among the names who are set to compete at the Abu Dhabi Open.
Before Osaka, 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu also received an Abu Dhabi main draw wildcard.
Osaka excited about going to Abu Dhabi
Ahead of her Abu Dhabi debut, Osaka claims she is really excited and looking forward to competing in the tournament.
“I’m very excited about competing in this year’s Mubadala Abu Dhabi Open and performing in front of the UAE tennis fans, who I know from previous experience will create a fantastic atmosphere,” Osaka said in a statement.
“It’s a…
