"You kind of have to cherish the years that you can play": Naomi Osaka returns to tennis with new perspective and new role model goal
WTAFriday, 15 December 2023 at 02:00
Naomi Osaka
discussed her return to the WTA Tour after a year away due to her recent
motherhood. The former world No. 1 last played at the 2022 Tokyo Open but
withdrew before her second-round match. Currently unranked, she aims to compete
for major titles once again.
Osaka
opened up about her recent motherhood, emphasizing how it has changed her
perspective on tennis since the birth of her daughter, Shai. The 4-times Grand
Slam champion acknowledged that the extended absence helped her appreciate the
time spent on the court.
The
26-year-old has struggled to find consistency since her 2021 Australian Open
title. Apart from reaching the final of the 2022 Miami Open (defeated by
Swiatek), Osaka has not achieved significant results. She withdrew from the
French Open due to mental health issues and later took time off for her
pregnancy.
“I've
stepped away from tennis before, but this time, it was the longest duration of
my life. And I think it kind of gave me a perspective like, 'Hey, you're not
going to play tennis forever. And you kind of have to cherish the years that
you can play,'" she noted.
“I do want to be a good role model” – Osaka about maternity
Osaka also
opened up about the time since her daughter's birth and her goal to be a role
model:
"I do
want to be a good role model for Shai, and I want her to see that this was an
important chapter in my life." I don't think people know how hard
pregnancy is; no one really talks about it as much.
Returning
to the Tour at the ATP 500 Brisbane Open in the first week of January, Osaka
will then travel to Melbourne to prepare for the first Grand Slam of the year,
the Australian Open, where she has already claimed the trophy twice
(2019-2021).
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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