Naomi Osaka advanced to the quarter-finals of the ASB Classic in Auckland with a determined 7-5, 6-3 victory over Julia Grabher, signaling a promising return to form ahead of the Australian Open. The former world No. 1 showcased resilience and adaptability, overcoming an hour-long rain delay and early errors to secure her spot in the last eight of a WTA Tour event for the first time in six months.
Osaka, who returned to the tour in 2024 following her pregnancy, displayed strong serving, sending down five aces and defending both break points. After consulting with coach Patrick Mouratoglou during the rain delay, she refocused and dominated the second set. “I just tried to focus on my bullet points and go out swinging,” she said, expressing gratitude for rediscovering her “will to fight.”
Reflecting on her journey back to competitive tennis, Osaka acknowledged the challenges of confrontation inherent in the sport but affirmed her renewed determination. The Japanese star, a two-time Australian Open champion, is using the Auckland tournament to prepare for the season’s first Grand Slam, where she hopes to build on her rediscovered momentum.
Osaka in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2025
Now ranked no.57, Naomi owns a 2-0 win-loss record in 2025. Naomi is playing at the moment in Auckland where she bested 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 up to now in top events.
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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