“Not Easy as a Young Child”: Naomi Osaka Recalls Tough Period During Elementary School in the USA

World No. 2 Naomi Osaka was born to a Japanese mother and a Haitian father. Even though the star player represents Japan, since her childhood, she has lived in the United States of America and finished her primary school education there itself. 

Recently, Naomi Osaka remembered her early days in America. It was a challenging time for her because she had not learned English and only knew Japanese. Therefore, this created a communication barrier for her, and she found it hard to make conversation with the other students and teachers.

Remembering that phase of her life, the Japanese player stated, “When we returned to the U.S., it was actually tough for me in elementary school because I did not speak English — only Japanese. The teachers and pupils couldn’t communicate with me at all for a while, which was not easy as a young child. But soon I learned English and it’s now my first language.”

Naomi Osaka considers English as her main language

As a child, to be in such a situation must have proved to be jarring. However, with time, the 23-year-old athlete picked up the English language, and now she considers it as her first language. However, to date, her fascination with Japanese cartoon programs remains high. 

Osaka has won four Grand Slam titles over a short duration. With time, she has established herself as a true force in the game, and she defeats the best players in the game with ease. 

Osaka lifted her fourth Grand Slam title in Melbourne

In the current season, Naomi began her journey at the Australian Open. During the event, she caused havoc for her opponents and lifted her second Australian Open title in Melbourne. 

After that, the Japanese starlet was next seen in Miami for the season’s first WTA 1000 event. Unfortunately, she lost to Greek tennis professional Maria Sakkari and ended her 23-match winning streak. However, she will be seen on the clay courts in Monte Carlo next week.

Also Read: “Tough Lives”: Naomi Osaka Reveals Her Deep-Rooted Attachment With Haitian Culture