© Facebook
Naomi Osaka hasn’t been on the competitive courts since September of 2022. She’d take a break for her mental health, then pregnancy. “Very honored to be going on chapter 2 of this tennis journey…I’m so excited to see you guys next year,” the 26-year-old grand slam and multi-titled champion has said on her X media page.
It was the first round exit of the U.S. Open in 2022 where just 4 years before she was the reigning champ over Serena Williams in a straight sets. Osaka also made it to Tokyo, but experienced a round of 16 loss when things started spiraling and her rankings dropped into the 80s.
She’s been hitting the practice courts with a vengeance and watching her competitors. Iga Swiatek was no. 1 then and still remains. They’ve played twice and each has won a match on the other. Naomi has played Aryna Sabalenka, the no.
2 WTA player only once at the U.S. Open and the Japanese came out with the victory. Osaka’s top rivals have stayed the same in ranking and playing levels. How will she fare now with them as her opponents? Rafael Nadal needs no intro whatsoever.
He’s an icon, a grand slam and titled playing extravaganza all his own. But he’s had multiple injuries which has hampered his playing…
