Naomi Osaka has recently given birth to her first child. Nine months of pregnancy and now the birth of her child has kept her away from the game. In fact, Osaka hasn’t won a title since her famous Australian Open 2021 triumph. She could not play tennis for most of 2022 before eventually announcing her pregnancy.
Now, that Osaka has given birth, questions revolve around her comeback. Players often come back from pregnancy in tennis. Serena Williams and Kim Clijsters are the best example as they went on to win Slams after their pregnancy. Recent memory would also put Elina Svitolina in the mix for her deep runs in Slams right after her return. Serena Williams’ ex-coach believes that Osaka would soon make to this list.
Serena Williams’ ex-coach predicts a big 2024 for Naomi Osaka
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Rick Macci, the childhood coach of Venus and Serena Williams believes that Osaka is due a comeback. According to him, Osaka is far from done and has all the elements to return to the tour and dominate again. With the next two Slams being played on her favorite surface hard courts, she might be eyeing an early comeback.
The 68-year-old coach took to Twitter to express his opinion on Osaka. He said, “@naomiosaka by the end of 2024 will be in the top ten. She has 4 slams in her back pocket (and) has been number one. Her serve is one of the best and she has the juice on both wings. The wildcard is belief and hunger and I know she believes and is very motivated.”
@naomiosaka by the end of 2024 will be in the top ten.She has 4 slams in her back pocket has been number one. Her serve is one of the best and she has the juice on both wings. The wildcard is belief and hunger and I know she believes and is very motivated.
— Rick Macci (@RickMacci) July 24, 2023
Those are some strong words from Rick Macci. According to him, Osaka’s serve and groundstrokes should allow her to come back to the top soon. Also, Osaka looks really eager to come back this time as she has started her training already!
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Naomi Osaka is training again
Just a few days after giving birth, Naomi Osaka was back in training. She was spotted working out with intensity. The video resurfaced on social media and fans wondered how motivated she must be to comeback. The US Open takes place next month but that might be too early for a comeback. She could play in a few indoor tournaments and then make a grand return at next year’s Australian Open.
When do you think Naomi Osaka will return to the tour? Do let us know in the comments.
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