In a candid conversation, four-time major champion Naomi Osaka shared her thoughts on her tennis journey and future aspirations. At 27, Osaka has experienced both remarkable success and significant challenges. Her career began with early triumphs, including her first major title at age 20. However, she has taken several breaks from the sport for personal reasons, most recently to welcome her daughter into the world in 2023. Returning to competition in 2024, Osaka faced disappointing results but showcased resilience in nearly defeating the top-ranked player Iga Swiatek at the French Open. She expressed that if her performance does not improve soon, she may reconsider her place in professional tennis. Despite this, Osaka remains committed to competing in 2025, starting with the ASB Classic in New Zealand and planning to participate in the Australian Open.
A Closer Look at Naomi Osaka's Journey and Next Steps
In the golden autumn of her career, Naomi Osaka, now 27, has been reflecting on her path in tennis. Her journey began with early victories, achieving her first major title at the young age of 20. However, life has brought its share of interruptions. Multiple hiatuses have punctuated her career, notably for mental health reasons and more recently after the birth of her daughter in 2023. Osaka returned to the court in 2024, only to face outcomes that fell short of her expectations. Yet, one of her most memorable matches was when she almost overcame the reigning No. 1 player, Iga Swiatek, at the French Open.
Osaka has acknowledged that if her performance does not improve in the near future, she might step back from the sport. "I don’t think I’m the type of player who would linger," she stated. While she holds deep respect for her peers, she feels that if she cannot maintain a certain ranking, dedicating time to her family, especially her daughter, would be more fulfilling. Nevertheless, Osaka is not ready to hang up her racket just yet. She plans to compete in 2025, starting with the ASB Classic in New Zealand and aiming to participate in the Australian Open in January. Osaka views 2024 as a year of growth and learning, despite the setbacks, and she is enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead.
From a journalist’s perspective, Osaka's reflections offer a poignant reminder of the balance between professional ambitions and personal fulfillment. Her honesty about the pressures of maintaining peak performance while managing life outside tennis resonates deeply. It underscores the importance of self-awareness and prioritizing well-being in high-pressure environments. Osaka’s decision to continue pursuing her passion while being open to adjusting her priorities sets an inspiring example for athletes and professionals alike.