Naomi Osaka, the former world No. 1, had a poor comeback to the Grand Slams. In 2024, Osaka lost to 16-seeded Caroline Garcia in the opening round of the Australian Open.
Even though Garcia was a formidable opponent, Garcia eventually won in straight sets (6-4, 7-6 (2)), despite Osaka’s outstanding effort in her only match back after a 15-month break. Despite making uncharacteristic double errors and misfiring on crucial points, Osaka was unable to secure even one break point.
In late 2022, Osaka took a protracted sabbatical from tennis to attend to her “wellness.” She also gave birth to her daughter Shai during that period. At this year’s Brisbane International, the 26-year-old made a surprise appearance and advanced to the Round of 32.
It was Osaka’s earliest Australian Open exit in eight tournaments when she was eliminated in the opening round. She took home the trophy twice, in 2021 and 2019.
“I thought I performed as well as I could have.” After the game, Osaka told ESPN, “It was just really nice to be on Rod Laver again and hear the audience, how much they interacted with the match.” “I have to remind myself things like, ‘Hey, you were pregnant like six months ago.'” Naturally, a voice asks, “Who are you to think you can come back and start winning matches immediately?” in my mind.