Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has openly discussed her future in tennis, expressing that she may consider stepping away from the sport if her performance does not align with her high standards.
At 27, Osaka is set to compete at the ASB Classic in Auckland, marking her return after a back injury at the China Open in October. Despite a challenging year, Osaka remains introspective about her 2024 performance, highlighting personal and professional growth during a nearly 15-month hiatus following the birth of her first child.
Osaka, finishing the season ranked 58, shared profound respect for her fellow athletes but emphasized her ambitions are far from just maintaining a presence on the court. “I don’t think I’m the type of player that would hang around,” she stated, indicating her focus on achieving a certain ranking level before considering a prolonged commitment to the sport.
Throughout 2024, Osaka’s record was 22 wins to 17 losses, reaching significant rounds in tournaments at Doha and in the Netherlands. She acknowledges the humbling experiences of the past year, recognizing the hard work she invested despite not achieving desired results. “I worked way harder than I’ve ever worked before,” she admitted, underscoring her continuous learning and anticipation for 2025.
Osaka recalls memorable matches, notably against Iga Swiatek at the French Open, which ended in a closely contested three-set match. Despite a setback due to injury in Beijing, Osaka remains optimistic about future games, particularly on hard courts.
Known for her victories at the Australian Open and US Open, Osaka’s commitment to tennis remains strong, driven by longstanding passion nurtured since childhood. She reflected on alternative careers during her break, affirming her genuine love for the game. “I’d rather be playing tennis,” she said, embracing her enduring dedication to the sport.
Osaka will face Lina Glushko in the first round of the ASB Classic, a match that signifies her ongoing challenges and aspirations within the tennis arena.
Naomi Osaka’s reflections on her tennis career reveal a balance between personal aspirations and professional commitments. As she prepares for the upcoming season, her determination to excel and her genuine passion for the sport are evident, setting the stage for a promising future in tennis.
Source: News4jax
