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In tennis, the ascent of a talented star frequently covers a large number of untold stories, battles, and rugged spirits. Ever since her debut, the tennis world was mesmerized by the 25-year-old WTA star Naomi Osaka. Osaka’s mom, Tamaki Osaka, helped and supported an energized Naomi, to climb the ladder to tennis fame. In a recent interview, she shared an interesting story about the tennis star. She expressed how she was more than a parent; she turned into a mentor, guide, and steadfast wellspring of support.

Tamaki’s memories portray a young Naomi whose energy for tennis was similar to a power that couldn’t be darkened by misfortunes. Her cutthroat soul was evident from a young age, as she overcame the difficulties that lay ahead with ease and poise.

Naomi Osaka’s mother, Tamaki Osaka, reveals a personal story in a recent interview

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For Naomi Osaka, the journey to the top was a result of her talent and an unwavering, competitive spirit. In the early periods of her tennis odyssey, a young Naomi, only 9 years of age, indulged in cordial fights with her older sister Mari. The Osaka family had turned into a battleground for their sprouting gifts.

As the years rolled on, Naomi’s dedication and hard work began to yield remarkable results. By 2007, she had figured out how to defeat her sister and, surprisingly, triumphed in a district tournament. Yet, with each win, came the shadow of defeat. The young tennis prodigy was not resistant to the profound cost that losses could take.

As indicated by Tamaki Osaka, Naomi’s mother, her little girl, would frequently sink into episodes of depression when confronted with loss. Tamaki would offer uplifting statements and remind Naomi that a match was just a small piece of the bigger plan.

In a recent interview, Tamaki shared, “Naomi would get very depressed when she lost, I would tell her, ‘Don’t worry about it. It’s just one match.”

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Naomi’s mother also added, “Frankly, I didn’t have the luxury to think about whether they could succeed or not, because we did not have any other option.

As Naomi’s mother held her infant little granddaughter, recollections of carrying Naomi into the world, overwhelmed Tamaki’s mind. In a recent interview, she drew parallels between her and Naomi’s legacy.

Tamaki Osaka reveals enduring bonds and draws beautiful parallels

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During the interview, Tamaki found similarities in her daughter’s and granddaughter’s eyes. She noticed the resemblance between Shai’s and Naomi’s wide gaze, with delight evident in her tone. Tamaki also mentioned Shai’s likeness to Naomi, sharing how she, like her mother, enjoys drinking milk and sleeping soundly.

via Imago

Recalling Naomi’s early years, Tamaki looked back at their modest Nishi Ward apartment. It was a two-room sanctuary that nurtured the dreams of young sisters, Naomi and Mari.

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WATCH THIS STORY: ‘I Love…’ – Naomi Osaka Points to the Ancient Technique She Relies on for Keeping Calm 2 Years After Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas Vouched for It

Tamaki shared how Naomi was an independent toddler, feeding herself udon noodles and pumpkin pieces from her walking chair. Fast-forward to today, and Naomi is a tennis superstar. Holding her daughter’s baby, the cycle of life feels complete. It’s a heartwarming real-life story, a celebration of new life and the enduring connections that bind us across generations.