Naomi Osaka Makes Remarkable Comeback to Tennis at Brisbane International Following the Birth of Her Child
Grand slam champion Naomi Osaka defies expectations, making her remarkable comeback to tennis at the Brisbane International, just six months post giving birth
Four-time grand slam champion Naomi Osaka will be making her return to tennis at the Brisbane International, less than six months after giving birth. The former world No. 1 hasn't competed on the WTA Tour since September 2022. In July of this year, she joyfully announced the arrival of her first child with American rapper Cordae.
"I am really excited about getting back out on court and competing," the 26-year-old Osaka said.
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"I am always delighted to kick off my season in Brisbane and eagerly anticipate my return. The Brisbane International is an exceptional tournament that will undoubtedly pave the way for a remarkable comeback this summer. It spans from December 31, 2023, to January 7, 2024, and serves as a valuable warm-up event prior to the Australian Open, the inaugural grand slam of the season."
Osaka has won two out of her four grand slam titles in Australia, with her latest triumph occurring in 2021. In the same year, during the French Open, the accomplished Japanese player made public her struggles with prolonged episodes of depression, leading her to withdraw from the tournament after her initial grand slam victory in 2018.
During an interview with ESPN last month, Osaka expressed her intention to participate in a packed schedule in 2024. She mentioned that she plans to compete in a significantly higher number of tournaments compared to before and speculated that this would bring happiness to certain individuals.
Osaka plays in the first round of last year's US Open.
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"I think its because I realized that I dont know how the beginning of the year is going to go for me. I dont know the level of play and I think I have to ease into it.
"At the very least, I am ensuring a successful conclusion to the year for myself."
On the men's side of the tournament, Andy Murray, a three-time grand slam champion, has confirmed his participation in Brisbane, alongside Holger Rune, who is currently ranked as the world No. 10.
