WTA Abu Dhabi 2024: ‘Bold’ Naomi Osaka Oozes Confidence in a Strong Message to Coco Gauff and Aryna Sabalenka

It hasn’t been an ideal comeback for Naomi Osaka. After giving birth to her first child last year, the Japanese star hoped to return to her best form again in 2024 but so far, things have not gone well. In the recently concluded Australian Open, Osaka lost in the opening round against France’s Caroline Garcia. Despite the poor form, Osaka made a big confession about the upcoming tournaments and what she believes her chances are.

While the Japanese-American has not lived up to expectations, the likes of Aryna Sabalenka and Coco Gauff are ruling women’s tennis. Especially the former, who clinched the 2024 Australian Open title. Let’s find out what Osaka had to say following a disappointing start to the season.

Naomi Osaka makes a candid revelation about Abu Dhabi

The Japanese star will return to action at the WTA 500 Abu Dhabi Open following the Australian Open debacle. Ahead of her opening-round match, Naomi Osaka compared herself to the likes of Sabalenka and Gauff.

As reported by ‘The National News’, she said, “I’m at a weird point right now in this comeback. I, obviously, have so much respect for them and everything that they’ve done. But I don’t really see myself as a challenger, which is a weird thing.”

Further, Osaka went on to add, “It’s really bold to say but I know what I’m capable of, and I know people are going to probably drag me for saying this, but I don’t think it’s a stretch for me to say that I see myself there. And I hope that I can get there this year, hopefully towards the tail-end of the year.”

The former World Number 1 announced her comeback plans late last year. She had been away from the sport for more than a year. Despite this, Osaka revealed big plans for the 2024 season.

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Osaka feels confident about getting back to her best

The Japanese tennis star has joined a host of mothers who have made a comeback to the sport. At 26, she still has a ways to go in her career. Additionally, Osaka is optimistic about returning to her best soon.

Opening up about this, she said, “I think I’ve just missed the competition. I’m a very competitive person, so it’s been really cool to see so many players doing really well, and so many like new faces. And I think what I wish to accomplish a lot when I get back on the court, so hopefully, I do well on grass and clay next year.”

Osaka begins her campaign in Abu Dhabi tomorrow, facing Danielle Collins of the United States in the opening round. Who are you putting your bets on in this contest? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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