Naomi Osaka is making headlines once again, not just for her powerful tennis but for her candid reflections on her future in the sport. After a 15-month maternity leave and a challenging return to the court, the four-time Grand Slam champion has found her rhythm at the Auckland Open, advancing to her first semifinals in two years. Yet, Osaka has hinted that 2025 may be a make-or-break season, as she contemplates retirement if she cannot meet her own expectations.
A Return to Form in Auckland
Osaka, seeded seventh in Auckland, has been steadily rebuilding her game. After opening her 2025 campaign with a straight-sets victory over Lina Glushko, she followed up with a solid 7-5, 6-3 win against Julia Grabher to reach the quarterfinals. There, she faced a tough challenge from Hailey Baptiste, dropping the first set in a tiebreak.
However, Osaka showcased her resilience, dominating the next two sets with powerful serving and precision. Her performance, which included nine aces, sealed a 6-7(2), 6-1, 6-2 victory and marked her first semifinal appearance since finishing as a runner-up at the 2023 Miami Open.
After the win, Osaka attributed her success to confidence and perseverance.
“I think the key focuses that I had were just to have a lot of belief and confidence in myself. I put a lot of work in throughout last year, and even though the results didn’t show it, I think I’m just continuing to try as hard as I can and see where it gets me,” she said via Forbes.
Osaka will face either Katie Volynets or Alycia Parks in the semifinals, with her sights set on winning her first title since the 2021 Australian Open.
A Season of High Stakes: Retirement Hints Loom
While Osaka’s recent success is cause for optimism, she has also hinted at retirement if she doesn’t meet her own standards this year. Speaking after her first-round win, Osaka was candid about her priorities, emphasizing the balance between her career and motherhood.
“I don’t think I’m the type of player that would hang around. At the point of my life that I’m at right now, if I’m not above a certain ranking, I don’t see myself playing for a while. I’d rather spend time with my daughter if I’m not where I think I should be,” she said.
Osaka’s willingness to consider stepping away underscores her focus on excellence. With her current ranking and form, she’s determined to prove that she still belongs among the sport’s elite.
Eyes on Melbourne: Building Momentum
The Auckland Open serves as a critical tune-up for Osaka ahead of the Australian Open, where she’s previously triumphed twice. While her path in Melbourne will undoubtedly feature tough opponents, the confidence and stamina she’s building in Auckland could provide the boost she needs to contend for her fifth Grand Slam title.
However, consistency remains key. Osaka’s recent struggles with injuries and form suggest that maintaining a high level across multiple matches will be her biggest challenge. Should she secure the Auckland title, it would not only mark a triumphant comeback but also set the tone for a potentially career-defining season.
A Career at a Crossroads
Naomi Osaka’s journey in 2025 is as much about personal fulfillment as it is about professional success. Her return to the semifinals signals a resurgence, but her open acknowledgment of retirement possibilities adds emotional weight to every match. Whether she achieves her goals or decides to step away, Osaka’s legacy as a trailblazer in tennis and beyond is already firmly established.
