Rare Image of 9-Year-Old Naomi Osaka Watching Rafael Nadal Play Goes Viral

Ever since turning pro in 2001, Rafael Nadal has been a player to look out for. Over the years, the Spaniard has succeeded in making an aura that remains unmatched by most players. Being one of the most successful players on the tour, he has also succeeded in having full houses not only during his matches but also during his practice sessions.

Having tasted success, the 22-time Grand Slam champion has for a long time been in a position to inspire young talents. One such talent is Naomi Osaka. The Japanese sensation today is a 4-time Grand Slam champion. However, going back in time, she was just another tennis fan watching the legendary Spaniard practice.

Naomi Osaka enjoys a practice session of Rafael Nadal

The year 2006 was a prominent part of Nadal’s formative years. With one title in 2004 and 11 in 2005, Nadal had already become the eye-catcher during tournaments. After winning 4 tour titles and the 2006 Roland Garros, the Spaniard headed to the 2006 US Open, eyeing his 3rd Grand Slam title.

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On the contrary, Osaka today enjoys being called a 2-time US Open champion. However, back in 2006, she was just a 9-year-old tennis fan. While her childhood idol was Serena Williams, she did have a special place for Rafael Nadal.

Determined to be a tennis player since her childhood, Osaka headed to Arthur Ashe Stadium to watch the Spanish bull practice.

As seen in the picture, Osaka was accompanied by her younger sister, Mari Osaka. Also a tennis player, Mari Osaka played several WTA and ITF matches before announcing her retirement in March last year. She now works as a fashion designer.

Nadal at the 2006 US Open

With two back-to-back Roland Garros titles, the second seeded Nadal entered the US Open in the hopes of securing a third Grand Slam title. Being at his peak, the Spaniard kicked off his campaign with a first-round win over wildcard entrant Mark Philippoussis. Going ahead, he further outplayed Peru’s Luis Horna. The third round had Nadal outplay South Africa’s Wesley Moodie, followed by a fourth-round win over Jiří Novák.

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Breezing past his opponents in the initial rounds, he faced the Russian sensation, Mikhail Youzhny in the quarterfinals. Despite the Russian taking the first set, Nadal made a comeback to level the match in the second set. However, looking to avenge his past three losses to the Spaniard, Youzhny sharpened his game to take the next two sets and knock Nadal out of the tournament.