"I realise how lucky I am to have played Serena": Naomi Osaka wants to leave similar legacy for next generation and ends initial retirement plans
WTAWednesday, 07 February 2024 at 02:30
Japan’s tennis star Naomi Osaka has stated that she felt
lucky to have shared the court with the former world number one Serena
Williams.
The 42-year-old is often regarded as the greatest player in
the history of women’s tennis in the singles category, having won as many as 23
Grand Slam titles in her illustrious career.
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Osaka was recently quoted in a report where she stated that
she wants to leave a legacy like Serena at the end of her career.
“You know what’s weird? Maybe a couple of years ago, I
really couldn’t imagine myself playing past like 32,” she said. “But I think
now, coming back, I realise how important role models are in tennis and how
lucky I am to have played Serena.
“I wish I could have played Li Na, because she’s my other
role model that I loved growing up. But just to have those figureheads still in
the game when you’re coming up is really cool. I feel like that’s something I
would want to, I guess, be on the other end of, towards the tail-end of my
career.”
Osaka has recently returned to the court after a gap of more
than 12 months. Her return did not go as per plan as she lost in the first
round of the Australian Open to Caroline Garcia with a score of 6-4, 7-6. She
then participated in the Abu Dhabi Open where she was knocked out after losing
in the round of 32 to America’s Danielle Collins with a score of 7-5, 6-0.
Azeem Siddiqui is a seasoned sports journalist and data analyst with a strong background in both digital media and live sports production.
He began his journalism career working with partners of The New York Times and has since contributed to several leading international sports publications, including Fox Sports Asia, Calciomercato, and GiveMeSport. Since 2023, Azeem has been part of the TennisUpToDate team, where he has played a key role in sustaining the platform’s growth and ensuring tennis fans receive timely and reliable coverage of the sport’s biggest stories.
In addition to his editorial work, Azeem has extensive experience as a data analyst in live sports broadcasting—particularly in cricket—where he combines analytical precision with creative storytelling. He has collaborated with multiple production companies and cricket boards worldwide, delivering real-time insights and data-driven narratives during live match coverage.
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