In a remarkable return to the court, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka secured a straight-sets victory at the ASB Classic in Auckland. This win marks her first match since October, following a back injury that ended her 2024 season prematurely.
Osaka faced Israel’s Lina Glushko in a tightly contested match, ultimately prevailing 6-4, 6-4. Despite the swirling wind and interruptions caused by a small group of protesters outside the stadium, Osaka remained focused and determined. The protests, which were clearly audible within the stadium, did not deter her from showcasing her powerful serve and aggressive groundstrokes.
The match saw Osaka break Glushko in the third game of the first set and hold comfortably to win 6-4. The second set was more challenging, with Glushko leveling at 2-2 after converting her only break point of the match. However, Osaka stepped up her game, holding serve with two aces and breaking Glushko again to clinch the win.
Osaka’s victory is a testament to her resilience and determination, as she continues to strive for excellence under the guidance of her new coach, Patrick Mouratoglou. This win not only marks a successful return to the court but also highlights her ability to remain composed and focused amidst external distractions.
As Osaka progresses in the tournament, her fans and supporters eagerly await her next match, confident that she will continue to demonstrate the skill and tenacity that have made her a formidable force in the world of tennis.
Osaka in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2024
Now the world no.57, the Japanese owns a compiled 1-0 win-loss record in 2024. The Japanese is now having a run in Auckland where she managed to beat the world no.220 Lina Glushko 6-4 6-4.
Naomi Osaka will come up against the world no.470 Julia Grabher in the 2nd round. They have never competed against each other so far on the main tour.
Osaka won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)