Auckland, New Zealand – Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka made a winning return to the court after an almost three-month absence, defeating Israeli qualifier Lina Glushko 6-4, 6-4 in the first round of the ASB Classic on Monday.
Osaka, who had been sidelined due to a back injury sustained at the China Open in October 2024, showcased all the hallmarks of her game: a powerful serve, forceful ground-strokes, and an aggressive style. Despite dealing with swirling winds and interruptions from protesters outside the stadium, Osaka remained focused and composed.
“I had no idea what the score was most of the time,” Osaka said after the match. “I just kept trying to tell myself one point at a time and trying not to get discouraged. Thankfully it came out in my favor in the end.”
Osaka’s victory marks her first win of the new season and a promising start to her campaign in Auckland. She will now face Austria’s Julia Grabher in the next round, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake.
The 27-year-old, currently ranked 58th in the world, returned to professional tennis in January 2024 after the birth of her daughter Shai in July 2023. Her best results since then have been two quarterfinal appearances, and she is now chasing her first title since the Australian Open 2021.
Osaka’s new coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, who previously had a long-term association with Serena Williams, was courtside to support her. “I think she’s a really amazing opponent. I’ve never played her before,” Osaka said. “It was good to have to scrap a little for the first round.”
With her powerful serve, hitting seven aces and winning 74 percent of her first-serve points, Osaka’s performance was a testament to her resilience and determination. As she continues her journey in the Auckland Open, fans and tennis enthusiasts alike eagerly await what’s next for this remarkable athlete.
Osaka in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2024
At the moment ranked no.57, Naomi owns a compiled 1-0 record in 2024. The Japanese is now competing in Auckland where she defeated 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. In the past, they have never competed against each other so far in top competitions.
Naomi won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
