“Wait, wait... can I practise here whenever I want?”: Naomi Osaka’s hilarious reaction after earning surprise Wimbledon privilege

Tuesday, 07 July 2026 at 04:30

Naomi Osaka’s Wimbledon breakthrough came with an unexpected surprise during her post-match press conference, as the four-time Grand Slam champion discovered live on camera that reaching the quarter-finals had earned her membership in one of the All England Club’s most exclusive groups.

After defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka on Centre Court to reach the last eight at Wimbledon for the first time in her career, Osaka was informed by a reporter that she had joined the Last Eight Club, a tradition reserved for players who reach the quarter-finals or better in singles at The Championships.

However, rather than immediately knowing what the honour meant, Osaka appeared genuinely confused about the benefits attached to the achievement: “Oh, wait, wait, because I thought you just get, like, that little pin," the former world No. 1 said. "Can I practise here whenever I want? Is that one of the perks?”

The exchange created one of the most entertaining moments from the tournament’s second week, with Osaka learning that her first Wimbledon quarter-final was not only a career milestone but also came with lifelong privileges at the All England Club.

What is Wimbledon’s Last Eight Club and what does Osaka receive?

The Last Eight Club was created in 1986 as a way for Wimbledon to recognise players who reach the final stages of the tournament. Singles quarter-finalists automatically receive membership, while players who reach the semi-finals in doubles or the mixed doubles final can also qualify.

Membership is permanent and provides a series of benefits connected to Wimbledon. Members receive lifelong access to the grounds during The Championships, including grounds passes for themselves and a guest, as well as access to the Last Eight Club hospitality area. They can also receive tickets for Centre Court and No.1 Court through the club’s arrangements.

The recognition is considered one of Wimbledon’s most unique traditions because it rewards not only champions but also players who have managed to reach the second week and establish themselves among the tournament’s elite performers.

Osaka’s reaction highlighted that even some of the biggest names in tennis are not always fully aware of the traditions and benefits attached to certain achievements. After receiving clarification, the Japanese star quickly realised the significance of what she had earned.

“So you have to win to be a member?” Osaka asked.

When the reporter confirmed that reaching the quarter-finals was enough, Osaka followed up: “Okay. Like for free?”

“Oh, hey. Okay, that’s cool. Yeah, I guess I’ll Google what the perks are,” she added.

Naomi Osaka after a reporter told her there are perks for qualifying in the QF and winning the Wimbledon 😭 pic.twitter.com/XUC1O0TdNq
— Tanya (@ScriptedTanya) July 5, 2026

Osaka reaches first Wimbledon quarter-final after stunning Sabalenka

The conversation came moments after one of Osaka’s most impressive performances since returning to the highest level of the sport. The former world No.1 defeated Sabalenka 6-2, 7-6(2) on Centre Court, ending the Belarusian’s run as the top seed and reaching her first Wimbledon quarter-final.

Osaka entered the match having lost her previous three meetings against Sabalenka in 2026, but produced a complete performance against one of the most powerful players on the WTA Tour.

The defeat marked Sabalenka’s earliest Grand Slam exit since the 2022 French Open and the first time she had lost a major match in straight sets in 122 Grand Slam appearances.

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For Osaka, meanwhile, the victory continued a positive period after she also reached the second week of Roland Garros for the first time last month. The 27-year-old admitted the result carried special meaning after a difficult period in her career. “It’s been a long time since I had so much fun on the court,” Osaka said after the match. “To do it here means a lot.”

Osaka will now face Czech No.10 seed Karolina Muchova in the quarter-finals, with a place in the Wimbledon semi-finals at stake. Muchova advanced after defeating defending champion Barbora Krejcikova, meaning Wimbledon will crown a different women’s singles champion for the 10th consecutive edition.

Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist

Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.

His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.

In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.

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