Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, began her 2025 season with a heartfelt moment at the ASB Tennis Classic in Auckland, New Zealand. While preparing for the tournament, Osaka discovered an unexpected coincidence that touched her deeply.
The Japanese star noticed her mother’s first name, Tamaki, written on the court in “Tamaki Makaurau,” the Maori name for Auckland. Sharing her surprise and joy on Instagram, she addressed her mother with a sweet message:
“I made it to New Zealand. But look, it says Tamaki. Well, it says Tamaki Makaurau. But anyways, mom, I know you’re going to see this. My mom’s first name is Tamaki. Mom, look I am playing on a court that has your name on it.”
The ASB Tennis Classic, running from December 30, 2024, to January 5, 2025, marks Osaka’s return after an injury that forced her to end her 2024 season prematurely. Despite setbacks, including withdrawing from matches against top players like Coco Gauff, Osaka is set to make a fresh start in Auckland.
Naomi Osaka in 2024
Currently the world no.
58, Osaka played her last match on the 1st of October when she had to retire when playing against world no.3 Cori Gauff in the 4th round and the scoreline was 3-6 6-4 .This season Naomi has a composed 22-18 record.
Naomi Osaka will face the world no.896 Anna Danilina in the . In the past, they have never competed against each other till now on the main tour.
The Japanese won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
Naomi Osaka |
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