Naomi Osaka kicked off her 2025 season with an impressive 6-4, 6-4 victory over Israeli qualifier Lina Glushko at the Auckland Open. Despite her stature as a former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion, the Japanese star shared her perspective on fame during the post-match interview, offering a unique insight into how she views her global recognition.
“I don’t think I’m famous,” Osaka remarked, explaining that she doesn’t feel bound by the restrictions often associated with celebrity life. Instead, she views herself as someone with “friends all around the world,” connecting with fans through shared memories of her performances.
Osaka’s comments come as she looks to rebuild momentum following an injury-marred 2024 season that ended with a back issue at the China Open. Her first-round victory in Auckland was a confident display, taking just 85 minutes and securing three breaks of serve while losing her own only once.
Ranked 57th ahead of the tournament, Osaka has climbed to No. 55 in the WTA Live Rankings. A deep run in Auckland, potentially culminating in her first title since the 2021 Australian Open, could propel her back into the top 40.
Next, she faces world No. 470 Julia Grabher, who advanced after defeating qualifier Leyre Romero Gormaz. The Auckland Open also saw fifth seed Clara Tauson and eighth seed Katie Volynets secure first-round victories.
As Osaka sets her sights on reclaiming her former dominance, her grounded outlook on fame continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
Osaka in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently the world no.57, the Japanese has managed to achieve an overall 2-0 win-loss record in 2025. Naomi is currently having a run in Auckland where she ousted Lina Glushko 6-4 6-4 and Julia Grabher 7-5 6-3.
Naomi Osaka will fight against Anna Danilina in the . In the past, they have never competed against each other as of now in top tournaments.
Osaka won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
Naomi Osaka |
| Embed from Getty Images |
