As the anticipation builds for Naomi Osaka’s highly awaited return to competitive tennis after giving birth, Barbara Schett, a prominent tennis commentator, shares insightful perspectives on Osaka’s potential resurgence and its implications for the sport.
Schett believes that Osaka’s comeback, marked by her “super aggressive” style, could present a unique challenge to rising stars like Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, and Elena Rybakina in the upcoming tennis season of 2024. Comparing Osaka’s gameplay with the comeback strategies of Caroline Wozniacki and Angelique Kerber, Schett emphasizes Osaka’s distinguishing factor – her “killer shots.”
“Caroline Wozniacki and Angie Kerber, they’re a little bit more defensive. They do like to play with the pace of the opponent, but they don’t have those killer shots like Naomi Osaka,” Schett remarked, outlining the contrasting styles among the players.
Highlighting the age difference and its potential impact, Schett underscores Osaka’s advantage as she enters her mid-20s compared to the comebacking Wozniacki and Kerber, who are over 30. Schett suggests that age might make it more challenging for Wozniacki and Kerber to keep up with the pace of younger opponents, while Osaka’s aggressive approach has historically negated such challenges.
Expressing her anticipation for Osaka’s return, Schett speculates on the potential change in Osaka’s playing style post-motherhood, expecting a more relaxed approach. “I think she’s still young enough to have a second career. Also, her approach might be different now because she’s had a baby,” Schett added, implying that motherhood might bring forth a more composed and evolved version of Osaka on the court.
Regarding Osaka’s and Wozniacki’s aspirations for Grand Slam titles, Schett suggests that while both players will be eyeing another major victory, the upcoming Australian Open might arrive too soon for them to achieve that goal. “I think they both have entered the Australian Open not thinking that they’re going to win it,” Schett mentioned, acknowledging the adjustment period required despite their readiness to compete.
Training pic.twitter.com/VCvNotTCdc
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) December 1, 2023
As Osaka gears up for her return at the Brisbane Open, the tennis world eagerly anticipates witnessing her resurgence and the potential impact of her “super aggressive” gameplay on the competitive landscape, setting the stage for an intriguing tennis season ahead.
Naomi Osaka in 2023
LWWWLWLWLW At the moment ranked no.661, Naomi played her last match on the 20th of September 2022 when she had to retire when playing against world no.204 Daria Gavrilova in the 1st round and the scoreline was 1-0 .
This year the Japanese has a compiled 14-9 win-loss record.
