Osaka hits the practice courts in Tokyo in preparation for Olympics

Japanese superstar Naomi Osaka will be making her much-anticipated return to the courts at the Tokyo Olympic Games, after taking a hiatus that saw her withdraw from the French Open and skip Wimbledon.

The World No.2 will be representing her home nation of Japan, which is also the host country for this year's Olympic Games. Originally slated for 2020, the pandemic forced the entire Olympics to be postponed by a full year. However, the organizers received approval to host the event this summer, albeit without any spectators.

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Regardless, Osaka and several top tennis stars will be competing at the event, with Ashleigh Barty and Iga Swiatek also in the mix. Being a native of Japan, there will be tremendous pressure on the 23-year old as she competes in her maiden Olympic Games. This will no doubt give the four-time Grand Slam champion more motivation to win a medal for her home country, as she was spotted training in Tokyo.

The tennis event for the Olympics runs from July 24-August 1 2021.

José Morgado

@josemorgado

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Naomi Osaka is already practicing in Tokyo as well. Good to see her back on court. [getty]

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