Naomi Osaka, the tennis sensation and former World No. 1, is all set to make her much-anticipated return to the court, as she recently revealed her comeback plans to eager fans. The news spells relief for her loyal fanbase, who have been anxious to see her back in action since her last Australian Open victory in 2021.
Osaka’s journey post-maternity has been no less than a rollercoaster, with numerous attempts to regain her title marred by persistent injuries. Recalling her struggle, one can’t forget the back and abdominal injuries that plagued her during the China Open, forcing her to withdraw from both the Auckland finals and the Australian Open. However, her resilience has been commendable. She has kept her fans abreast of her recovery and training through regular social media updates.
Interacting with fans has always been a highlight for Osaka, whether it’s during training sessions with her coach Patrick Mouratoglou or discussing her favorite Studio Ghibli movies. In a recent Instagram AMA session, she revealed her return plans when a fan inquired about her next tournament.
Contrary to earlier expectations of her return for the MGM Rewards exhibition in March and the HSBC Championships in June, Osaka surprised fans with her announcement. “I’m playing Indian Wells. I miss you guys also,” she stated.
The BNP Paribas Open, slated for March 5-16, holds significance for Osaka. She emerged victorious in this tournament back in 2018, defeating Daria Kasatkina in the finals. However, her subsequent performances in 2019 and 2024 saw her exit in the third round.
Osaka initiated 2024 powerfully, reaching the final of the Auckland WTA tournament in January—her first final since her maternity leave. Unfortunately, victory eluded her again, as she had to retire due to an abdominal injury. Despite her early success at the Australian Open, where she defeated Caroline Garcia and Karolina Muchova, she was forced to retire from her third-round match against Belinda Bencic.
Despite these setbacks, Osaka remains optimistic about her performance. Her preseason training with new coach Patrick Mouratoglou has been rigorous, as evidenced by her social media posts. With renewed zeal, she aims to make the most of the 2025 season.
In a recent conversation with CNN Sport, she expressed her determination to continue her winning streak. She also shared her ambitious aspirations for the future, which include winning Wimbledon and Roland Garros (the French Open) to achieve a career grand slam.
One of the highlights of the upcoming Indian Wells tournament for Osaka is the return of her tennis idol, Venus Williams. Williams, who has been granted a wild card entry for the BNP Paribas Open, is a significant source of inspiration for Osaka.
Osaka’s respect for Williams is evident as she spoke to CNN, “She’s probably the reason why I started playing. It makes me really excited to go to the tournament and see her.”
With her unwavering determination and a clear vision, all eyes are now on Osaka as fans eagerly anticipate her potential first title win in three years. Will this tournament mark the comeback of the tennis prodigy? Only time will tell.
