Naomi Osaka is ready to take the plunge into the new season – Quite literally! After a frustrating lower back injury forced her to cut her 2024 season short at the China Open, Osaka has been making the most of her time off. She swapped her tennis racket for a pickleball paddle, indulging in her favorite hobbies and spending time with loved ones. Now, it’s back to business as she landed in Auckland, New Zealand for the ASB Classic. But looks like the fun’s not over. The Japanese tennis star is making the most out of her trip to Auckland whether it be sailing in a yacht or jumping from new heights. Spolier alert! This is something Coco Gauff has already checked off her list.

The 27-year-old tennis player is enjoying her time in Auckland. On December 26th she shared a story of herself, her coach Patrick Mouratoglou, hitting partner Matias Zukas, and some other team members sailing in style on a yacht. Now, she’s looking for a dose of adrenaline rush as she visits Auckland’s famous SkyTower. Osaka posted a story featuring the famous Hackett Auckland SkyTower, with the caption, “Doing all the side quests out there.”

The Auckland Sky Tower, a 328-meter-tall structure, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It’s become a landmark in the city, famous for its SkyJump experience – a thrilling 192-meter jump from the observation deck, all while securely harnessed. It’s an iconic adventure for any adrenaline junkie, and Osaka has now joined the ranks.

Interestingly, Coco Gauff also tackled the Auckland SkyJump last year when she was in town for the Auckland Open. Gauff shared her exhilarating experience on Instagram, captioning her post, “Jumping into the new year 🎊 #2024.” That wasn’t the only high point for Gauff in Auckland. She went on to defend her title at the Auckland Open and kick-start her 2024 season in style.

However, this year, Gauff won’t be participating in Auckland. She opted for the United Cup instead. “For me, I wanted to play a higher level of competition and also a team competition. I had a lot of fun with the Paris Olympics. The season’s already so much by ourselves that it’s nice to mix it up. I think for all of us, the main focus is the Australian Open and doing well there,” she told reporters.

Though Gauff’s presence will be missed at the tournament, it will be an amazing opportunity for Osaka to claim the title after an 8-year hiatus from it. After all, they are following the same journey.! If she wins we will know the story of her success.

Naomi Osaka shares why the Auckland Open means so much to her

As Naomi Osaka gears up for the 2025 ASB Classic in Auckland, she’s also reconnecting with something deeply meaningful. This tournament holds a special place in her heart for a very touching reason. The reason will surely melt your heart!

During one of the ASB Classic practice sessions, Osaka noticed that the court had “Tamaki” displayed on it, which happens to be her mother’s name. Osaka shared a heartfelt moment on Instagram: “I made it to New Zealand. But look, it says Tamaki. Well, it says Tamaki Makaurau. But anyways, mom, I know you’re going to see this. My mom’s first name is Tamaki. Mom, look I am playing on a court that has your name on it.”

As a mother herself to daughter Shai, Osaka took a break from the sport to embrace motherhood before making her comeback to the court. Her 2024 season had a challenging start, seeing her drop to No. 833 in the rankings. However, she made an impressive recovery, jumping all the way up to No. 58. Sharing her excitement for what’s ahead, the four-time-Grand Slam champion said, “I am looking forward to just embracing the nature of Auckland and of course, playing in a tournament that I have not played in for a long time. I am excited to return to Auckland for the ASB Classic 2025.”

Naomi Osaka is jumping into the new season with the same adrenaline rush that Coco Gauff experienced last year. Will this newfound excitement help her make a splash at the Auckland Open?