Tennis Rule Benefits New Mom Naomi Osaka as She Gets Huge Morale Boost Ahead of Australian Open 2024

Former World No.1 Naomi Osaka has definitely made quite an impact in tennis. Although this is not a one-sided effort, the sport now rewards her with a special feature. Osaka will be entering the Australian Open after quite a long hiatus. She has already lost her ranking in the crowd because of being inactive. However, in a recent turn of events, interesting news has popped up regarding this. 

Osaka has been a formidable force on the court and she has proven this multiple times. While some may call it unfair for other players, that is not entirely true. 

The Special Ranking Advantage for Naomi Osaka 

Tennis, like any sport, has its own set of rules that sometimes play referee in rankings. The Australian Open 2024 and the Women’s Special Ranking roster unveil a mix of seasoned players. Each player is armed with a numerical badge indicating their standing. Amidst the buzz of serves and volleys, players sometimes find themselves sidelined. 

In such scenarios, the rules offer a lifeline called a Special Ranking. This isn’t just a concession. It’s more like a tactical move that Osaka and a few others are strategically playing. Osaka’s entry is marked by a distinctive special ranking of 46. Not only does it acknowledge her past prowess but it’s also evidence of the sport recognizing her stature. Osaka’s hiatus from the court meant a dip in conventional rankings. However, the SR ensures her a spot among the elite.

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This isn’t an isolated privilege in any way. Other players like Jennifer Brady and Angelique Kerber wield their own special rankings. Points and rankings often dictate the abilities of a player. This Special Ranking isn’t just a loophole. It’s a rule that levels the playing field. Also, Osaka’s reason to step away from tennis was quite serious.

Osaka’s journey with mental health 

Osaka’s journey took an unexpected turn when she chose to step away from the court. It wasn’t just a break from the court but a pause dictated by the profound need to prioritize mental health. Osaka is a player who is celebrated for her resilience. However, she herself revealed a vulnerability that resonated beyond the game.

Facing mental health challenges head-on, Osaka made a conscious decision to put her well-being first. In a world that is often overshadowed by points and rankings, her candid acknowledgment sparked a crucial conversation. 

The toll the sport can take on the players’ mental states is quite brutal. Osaka’s hiatus becomes not just a strategic move but an important one. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 

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