The four-time champion of major tennis tournaments speaks openly before her return to the 2024 Abu Dhabi Open.
Naomi Osaka, Li Na, and Serena Williams (Image credits: The New York Times, China Daily)
The former top-ranked player in the world is back on the Tour, aiming for a successful comeback. She took a break from the entire 2023 season due to her pregnancy. In 2022, she had to end her season in September due to another round of injuries.
She made her first appearance in the 2024 season in Brisbane, winning the match in straight sets against an opponent. However, she lost in three sets to another player in the second round. She then participated in the tournament, but the two-time former champion was defeated in straight sets by a player in the first round.
As she returns to compete in the event, the Japanese player openly discussed various topics during her lengthy conversation with an interviewer. One of the subjects she talked about was her retirement.
The four-time champion of major tennis tournaments has faced difficult seasons on the Tour. After her mental health incident at a previous tournament, she took a significant break from the Tour. In 2022, she struggled with injuries before ultimately missing the entire 2023 season.
During such challenging times, it is common for players to consider retirement. However, Osaka has found new hope and ambition to prolong her career, thanks to certain individuals.
Naomi Osaka, a champion of major tennis tournaments, is present! Enjoying the sandy dunes in Abu Dhabi 🇦🇪 #Mubadala #InAbuDhabi #AbuDhabiSC #NaomiOsaka #WTA (link to image)
Osaka is currently ranked 757th in the world. She received a wildcard entry into the singles main draw from the organizers. With victories at both the Australian Open and the tournament, she possesses an impressive record that makes her a strong candidate for a wildcard entry.
To the surprise of many, the former top-ranked player will also participate in the doubles event. She has partnered with Tunisian star . The duo is the only wildcard entry in the doubles draw.
This year, we will witness Osaka and Ons at the Abu Dhabi Open 🤩❤️ #NaomiOsaka | #OnsJabeur (link to image)
The two athletes have recently become good friends due to their shared business ventures, and it will be a delight for fans to see them together. In the singles event, Osaka will face in the first round. As for Jabeur, she received a bye in the first round as the second seed.
In the second round, Osaka will compete against the young sensation . In doubles, Osaka and Jabeur will face the all-Chinese pair of and .