Former World No. 1, Naomi Osaka, returned to on-court action on New Year’s Day and didn’t disappoint her fans, neither from her match nor from her post-match interview.
Naomi Osaka was up against Tamara Korpatsch, a World 83-ranked German player. The match was as special as the day itself, Osaka was making a comeback after a long gap of 15 months. It was a delight for her fans to see her win the match in straight sets, recording a score of 6-3, 7-6 (11-9).
The Japanese international player advances to the Round of 32 after her win in the first match.
Naomi Osaka is well regarded for her light-hearted comments and for possessing a humorous personality in her. Her aura around the court, the fans, but also her interviewers.
A similar incident unfolded in her recent post-match interview when the interviewer asked her about her life as a new mother. He also asked her to compare life as a mother of a newborn versus that of being a top tennis player.
The question prompted a quick and funny response from the Japanese, who said she preferred ‘playing tennis’ over ‘changing diapers’. Her full response to the question was as follows :
“Normally I would say close out the match, but it was kind of tough for me today, But Shai likes to fight her sleep, so I would say preferably playing tennis over changing diapers and anything like that.”
Naomi Osaka after winning first tennis match in 16 months
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 1, 2024
“Which is easier, closing out a match or getting a newborn to sleep?”
Naomi: “Shai likes to fight her sleep. So I’d say preferably playing tennis over changing diapers” 😂 pic.twitter.com/b4ZRXOMLPz
“Is it okay if I keep it?”, Naomi Osaka asks her fan if she could have a New Year gift
Naomi Osaka has begun her new season with the same old cute personality. A recent post-match fan interaction reveals her warm and funny nature.
After winning her match against her opponent Tamara Korpatsch, Osaka went on to greet her fans for all the love and support they showcased for her during the match. She signed autographs and took selfies with her supporters.
However, one interaction with a fan captured the attention of the Tennis World. A female fan approaches Naomi and gives her a Kangaroo plushie to sign for her. The cute stuffed toy caught Naomi’s attention, and she asks it from her right away.
The clip surfaced on the social media platform, X, where an account shared this interaction. Naomi is cited as saying :
“Is it okay if I keep it?” 😂
Osaka is scheduled to play her Round of 32 match against Karolina Pliskova on Tuesday, 2nd January.
