Naomi Osaka confirms daring comeback plan at US Open after delivery of first baby
Naomi Osaka has confirmed that she plans to play at January’s Australian Open after giving delivery to her first baby, Shai, this summer season. The former World No. 1 additionally intends to play “way more tournaments” than she used to partake in earlier than her being pregnant in a distinct method to earlier than her time away.
Osaka, 25, introduced that she was anticipating a toddler days earlier than the primary Grand Slam of this 12 months, curbing her season earlier than it had even begun. At the time, she instructed her followers she was aiming to be again for the 2024 version, and that is still the case.
The four-time Slam winner’s remaining match earlier than asserting her being pregnant was on the Pan Pacific Open in September 2022. After advancing via the primary spherical because of her opponent, Daria Gavrilova, retiring, she then withdrew from the second stage, citing belly pains.
Over a 12 months later, Osaka was on the U.S. Open on Wednesday, talking about psychological well being in sports activities on a panel alongside Michael Phelps. She was additionally noticed at Arthur Ashe Stadium watching 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev beat Andrey Rublev in straight units.
While in Flushing Meadows, she spoke with ESPN‘s Chris McKendry about her return to the game. After admitting that her schedule for subsequent 12 months is in place, Osaka did expose additional particulars.
“Um, it’s definitely way more tournaments than I used to play,” she stated. “So I think some people will be happy with that.
Osaka explained: “Honestly, I believe it is as a result of I understand, like, I do not know the way the start of the 12 months is gonna go for me. Like, I do not know the extent of play, and I believe I form of need to ease into it.
“So, at the very least, I’m gonna set myself up for a very good, like, end of the year.” That bodes effectively for subsequent 12 months’s U.S. Open. By then, Coco Gauff may enter that competitors because the defending champion.
Asked in regards to the American, Osaka was effusive in praising {the teenager} after taking part in down the suggestion that she mentored her. “I’m at all times actually pleased with every little thing she does,” she said.
“Like, she looks like such a superb individual. And simply every little thing she’s doing and talking out about so many various matters.
“I think it’s something that I would love my kid to look up after her as a role model. And just seeing her doing well in, like, her home Grand Slam is really cool, and I cheer for her every match that she plays.”
Osaka also spoke about the moms that she would be rejoining on the tour. Caroline Wozniacki and Elina Svitolina have returned to the sport since giving birth this year alone, with Angelique Kerber aiming to become another.
“I think we’re probably gonna form a group chat or something,” she stated whereas laughing. “Um, but it’s really good to see everyone playing well again and to see familiar faces.