Former world number one and four-time Grand Slam champion, Naomi Osaka, is set to make a comeback to professional tennis at the Brisbane International, nearly six months after giving birth to her daughter, Shai. The Japanese tennis sensation last competed on the WTA Tour at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in September 2022.
Excitement Surrounds Osaka’s Return
Expressing her excitement about returning to the court, Osaka stated, “I am really excited about getting back out on court and competing. I always love starting my season in Brisbane and can’t wait to return. The Brisbane International is such a great tournament and will set me up for a brilliant comeback this summer.”
The Brisbane International, commencing on December 31 and concluding on January 7, serves as a significant event leading up to the Australian Open, scheduled to begin on January 14. Osaka, having clinched her fourth Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in 2021, eyes a successful return to the competitive tennis scene.
Naomi Osaka, known for her powerful game, has not only faced challenges on the court but has also been open about her struggles off the court. After withdrawing from the French Open in May 2021, she disclosed her battle with “long bouts of depression” since her first major title win at the US Open in 2018. Osaka has taken breaks from tennis in the past, prioritizing her mental health.
Andy Murray Joins the Return at Brisbane International
In addition to Osaka’s anticipated comeback, Great Britain’s tennis star, Andy Murray, will also be participating in the Brisbane International. The tournament is making a return after a three-year hiatus forced by the Covid-19 pandemic. Murray, a former world number one, expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “It’s great to see the Brisbane International back, and I am really looking forward to returning to Queensland this summer.”
Murray, a two-time Brisbane International champion in 2012 and 2013, shared his fond memories of winning the title and expressed his desire to lift the trophy for the third time in Brisbane. His participation adds to the excitement surrounding the tournament’s return.
As the tennis world eagerly awaits the Brisbane International, Naomi Osaka’s return after embracing motherhood and Andy Murray’s aspirations for another title in Brisbane add compelling storylines to the upcoming tournament. The event not only marks the resurgence of top-level tennis in Brisbane but also signifies the resilience and determination of these two tennis icons in pursuing their passion on the court.
