Naomi Osaka stays optimistic about her Australian Open hopes regardless of an stomach harm that compelled her to drag out of the Auckland Classic last on Sunday.
The former world No. 1, who was main Clara Tauson 6-4 in her first WTA last in practically three years, is scheduled for an MRI to evaluate the extent of the harm.
“I don’t feel that it’s too serious, and I still feel very optimistic about AO,” Osaka, 27, mentioned in an announcement.
The harm, which appeared stomach reasonably than the again challenge that ended her 2024 season, left Osaka in tears as she withdrew from the match.
She had led 5-1, dominating with two breaks of serve, however because the match progressed, she struggled along with her serve and couldn’t proceed. Osaka obtained a subdued ovation as she left the court docket, returning just for the post-match prizegiving.
“I’m just really grateful to be here,” Osaka mentioned, thanking the Auckland crowd for his or her heat reception. “I hope you enjoyed the tennis we played.”
The harm was a irritating finish to an in any other case promising week.
Osaka, who returned to tennis in early 2024 after a maternity break, had proven glimpses of her former glory.
Her run to the Auckland last marked her first WTA last since her victory on the 2021 Australian Open, and a possible win would have marked her first title since then.
Osaka’s journey again to the game had been full of reflection. After a year-long absence to welcome her daughter, Shai, she spoke about how motherhood and the break had altered her perspective on tennis.
“There are moments where it’s really difficult, where I do get down on myself,” she mentioned. “But then I just realized I was pregnant not so long ago and I really wanted the opportunity to play again.”
In Auckland, she battled by robust matches, defeating Lina Glushko, Julia Grabher, Hailey Baptiste, and Alicia Parks – all with out dropping a couple of set. Despite not being the event’s prime seed, she fought by each spherical with willpower and grit, showcasing a reinvigorated mindset.
“I want to take every match seriously,” Osaka mentioned, reflecting on her renewed mentality. “If someone beats me, I want it to be the fight of their life. I want to build that reputation.”
Osaka additionally expressed gratitude for her return to the tour, acknowledging her twin position as each a veteran and a newcomer. “I feel like a veteran and also a newbie at the same time,” she mentioned. “I’ve been out of the game long enough to accept the fact that I’m playing against new players. I feel a lot of responsibility, and I’m learning and trying my best every year.”
She additionally opened up in regards to the absence of her position fashions, Serena and Venus Williams. “I do feel a little sad that my great role model is gone,” Osaka mentioned. “I hope I can play as many years as them and build a really good foundation for the sport.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com