“Went Back to My Childhood Courts”: Naomi Osaka’s New Collaborative Effort to Help Kids Learn Tennis

All eyes turn to the forthcoming US Open with fans gearing up for the season finale. Playing under the skyline is a star-studded lineup that promises enthralling action to come. Leading the charge for the WTA regiment is an exciting World No. 3. However, before she takes to the court, a new collaborative effort by Naomi Osaka is making headlines.

Right at the heart of it, Naomi Osaka is tennis’ new uprising star. She’s one of the Gen Z athletes who has risen through the ranks, courtesy of her exuberant tennis. In her recent Netflix docuseries, Naomi revealed how she began hardcourt training at a very young age. Safe to say, its results are showing now.

With yet another collaboration, Naomi revisits the courts that she played on growing up. Taking to her social media, she revealed her wholesome experience.

A trip down memory lane

Even though Naomi claims Japanese citizenship, she grew up in the United States. Hence, she shared countless memories with the American streets and, notably, with its courts. Now a world renowned athlete, Naomi hasn’t forgotten her roots. Paying back to the surface that made her the global star she is today, the 4-time Grand Slam champion revealed a collaborative effort.

Upon her trip back home, and witnessing a few young guns like her on the playing field, Naomi said, “Went back to my childhood courts that ‘DrinkBODYARMOR’ teamed up with me to newly renovate. Seeing all the kids playing on the courts I used to play on was crazy.”

Taking to her Twitter, Naomi announced her collaboration with ‘BODYARMOR’ an American sports drink brand. Together, they take an initiative to remodel the courts Naomi spent her childhood at.

Naomi Osaka’s gesture towards her home turf and its homegrown talent showcases the star’s humility. However, soon enough now, the WTA professional will have to don her fierce hat as she gears up for a feisty outing in the US Open.

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Tough draw for Naomi Osaka

Only yesterday, the draws for the season ender were announced. Notably, third seed at the tournament, Naomi Osaka’s journey will grab headlines as she is in for a battle. Beginning her title defense, the Word No. 3 faces Marie Bouzkova, Alycia Parks and Yulia Putintseva in round 1, 2 and 3 of the competition, respectively. However, the clash of the titans begins from there on.

Naomi will be up against Germenay’s Angelique Kerber in round 4 of the tournament. Getting past the former World No.1 will be tricky for the Japanese, but if she does so, she will face Elina Svitolina in the quarter-finals and Aryna Sabalenka in the semi-finals. However, the toughest battle will surely be the finals against the in form top seed, Ashleigh Barty, provided there aren’t any upsets along the way.

Ever since her return to the sport after almost a two-month long break, Naomi is yet to record a thumping win. Riddled with early exits and surprise defeats, the youngster has struggled with form. With her fate in her own hands now, can she repeat history in New York?

Read more: Naomi Osaka to Clear Svitolina, Sabalenka, and Barty Test at US Open 2021 For Her 5th Grand Slam Title