© Getty Images Sport – Clive Brunskill
Naomi Osaka has made it perfectly clear that her tennis return is driven by the determination to win more Grand Slams but also adds that for now she considers success just competing well and doing her absolute best whenever she is playing.
When Osaka prematurely ended her 2022 season in September of that year, there were concerns about where the Japanese’s career was going considering that she wasn’t playing much at the time and that she was struggling with her motivation. After Osaka announced her pregnancy in 2023 January and it became clear that she would also not play any tournament last year, many wondered how that would impact the Japanese’s mindset.
But being away from tennis for an extended period actually did wonders for four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka, who regained her motivation and passion for the game during her 16-month break.
While Osaka has major post-pregnancy goals, she is just 5-5 since returning and hasn’t gone past the quarterfinal stage. On Monday, Osaka – now ranked at No. 287 in the world – lost to Elise Mertens 5-7 4-6 in the Indian Wells third round.
Later in her press conference, Osaka was asked what would be a definition of success for her now.
“Honestly, I’m not really chasing the…
