Tennis titan Naomi Osaka is back in the game, showcasing her unwavering resolve in a thrilling victory at the Miami Open. The former World No.1 is making an impressive comeback following a challenging year that saw her grappling with injuries and personal commitments.
Osaka kickstarted 2025 on a high note, reaching the finals of the Auckland WTA tournament. It was her first significant tournament since she returned to the tennis courts after a year-long maternity leave. However, her triumph was short-lived as an abdominal injury forced her to retire after securing the first set 6-4 against Clara Tauson. Undeterred, she put up a remarkable performance at the Australian Open, defeating Caroline Garcia of France and Karolína Muchova before retiring from her third-round match against Belinda Bencic due to injury.
The real turnaround came at the Miami Open, where Osaka’s determination and home court advantage fused to create a riveting tennis spectacle. She faced off against Ukraine’s Yuliia Starodubtseva in a nerve-wracking match that kept spectators on tenterhooks. Osaka managed to stage an extraordinary comeback, turning the match in her favor after initially losing the first five games. The match extended over two hours and 28 minutes, a testament to Osaka’s tenacity.
After trailing 4-2 in the second set, Osaka’s powerful serves turned the tide. She fired 10 aces, dominating the third set and finally clinching a hard-fought victory with a scoreline of 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. The four-time Grand Slam champion attributed her victory to her mother, Tamaki, who was present in the stands, and her daughter, whose presence gave her the strength to keep moving forward. Osaka was unequivocal in expressing her fondness for Miami, calling it her U.S. home and aiming to win her first title in the city.
Osaka’s previous best finish at the Miami Open was as a runner-up to Iga Swiatek in 2022. However, a maternity leave and a third-round exit against Caroline Garcia in the 2024 Miami Open marked a temporary setback. Now, she’s all set to face Liudmila Samsonova in the next round.
This victory holds immense significance for Osaka as it comes on the heels of a first-round loss at the Indian Wells Open, her first tournament since the Australian Open. Looking to put her past behind, Osaka is eager to compete with the top players in Miami.
Osaka’s journey back to the top has been far from smooth. After a disappointing performance at Indian Wells, the 27-year-old tennis star bounced back with renewed energy and determination. She showcased her grit and fire in the Miami Open, hinting at a promising comeback. She shared her new game strategy of giving her all on the court, even if it meant running into every corner.
However, Osaka’s journey goes beyond the tennis court. She spoke about the patience and maturity she gained from motherhood. Her daughter, Shai, has taught her to accept the things she cannot control and give her best in every situation.
Osaka’s performance at the Miami Open is indicative of her determination to reclaim her spot at the top. Will she be successful? Only time will tell. Share your thoughts with us!
