Auckland, New Zealand – In a remarkable comeback, Naomi Osaka reached her first WTA final since 2022, and more importantly, her first as a mother. The four-time Grand Slam champion from Japan defeated Alycia Parks 6-4, 6-2 in the semifinals of the Auckland Classic on January 4, 2025.
Osaka, who became a mother in 2023, expressed her joy and gratitude after the match. “It was definitely really important. I’m happy to get through to the final. I’ve actually never gotten to the final of a tournament the week before Melbourne. This is a career first for me,” said the 27-year-old.
Reflecting on her journey, Osaka emphasized the importance of continuous improvement. “In my head, I’m really happy there are always things to improve and get better, no matter how old you are.”
Osaka’s next challenge is against Denmark’s Clara Tauson, the No. 5 seed, in the final. A victory would mark her first title since the 2021 Australian Open and a significant milestone in her post-motherhood career.
Osaka’s performance in Auckland has been a testament to her resilience and dedication. After taking a break from tennis and becoming a mother, she returned to the sport last year and has steadily climbed back up the rankings. Her powerful and precise play has been on full display this week, and she is now one win away from adding another title to her impressive resume.
As she prepares for the final, Osaka remains focused and determined. “I think I put a lot of work in throughout last year and even though the results didn’t show it, I think just continuing to, I guess, try as hard as I can and see where it gets me,” she said.
The tennis world eagerly awaits the final showdown in Auckland, where Naomi Osaka will once again showcase her incredible talent and determination to succeed.
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Osaka in Auckland, ranking, and results in 2025
Currently the world no.57, the Japanese has achieved a 4-0 record in 2025. Naomi is now having a run in Auckland where she overcame Lina Glushko 6-4 6-4, Julia Grabher 7-5 6-3, Hailey Baptiste 6-7(2) 6-1 6-2 and Alycia Parks 6-4 6-2.
Naomi Osaka will play Clara Tauson in the final on Sunday at 5:00 pm on STADIUM COURT. In the past, they have never competed against each other up to now in top events.
Naomi won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
