Naomi Osaka to Make Highly Anticipated Return to WTA Tour at Brisbane International
Former World No. 1 Set to Compete After 15-Month Hiatus
Naomi Osaka, the former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam winner, is set to make her long-awaited return to the WTA tour at the Brisbane International in January. After a break of 15 months, Osaka will step back onto the court, ready to showcase her exceptional skills once again.
The last time Osaka participated in a WTA tournament was at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in late September 2022. Since then, she has taken time off to embrace motherhood, welcoming her daughter, Shai, in July of this year.
Throughout her career, Osaka has experienced extended periods away from the game. Following her second triumph at Melbourne Park, she took a significant break to prioritize her mental health, which included skipping the 2021 French Open. She also took another break after the US Open in the same year.
“I am really excited about getting back out on court and competing,” expressed Osaka, who views the Brisbane International as a crucial warm-up event for the Australian Open. The Australian Open holds a special place in Osaka’s heart, as she emerged victorious in 2019 and 2021.
The Brisbane International, making its return after a three-year hiatus initially caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, will feature a star-studded lineup. Alongside Osaka, fans can expect to see the likes of Andy Murray, twice Australian Open champion Victoria Azarenka, world No. 10 Holger Rune, and world No. 14 Grigor Dimitrov. The tournament will take place from December 31 to January 7.
Murray, who has reached five Australian Open finals but fell short of claiming the title, expressed his excitement about the Brisbane International’s return. “It’s great to see the Brisbane International back, and I am really looking forward to returning to Queensland this summer,” Murray stated. He also reminisced about his previous victories in Brisbane and expressed his desire to lift the trophy for a third time.
The highly anticipated Australian Open will follow the Brisbane International, taking place at Melbourne Park from January 14 to 28. Tennis enthusiasts around the world eagerly await the return of one of the sport’s most prestigious events.
As the countdown to these thrilling tournaments begins, fans can also enjoy the best sport and more with NOW, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the action.