Naomi Osaka, a former world number one and new mother, expressed her pride at winning her first match back at the Brisbane International after a hiatus, acknowledging her nerves but also her excitement to return to the court.
She noted the significance of facing a challenging opponent early on as a valuable training experience for upcoming matches. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, stepped away from tennis in September 2022 due to mental health concerns, and after giving birth to a baby girl in July, she felt a renewed passion for the game and decided to return for the 2024 season.
In her match against Tamara Korpatsch, Osaka acknowledged feeling nervous but ultimately felt proud of her performance, highlighting her improved outlook on the game following motherhood. She expressed gratitude for the support from fans and a newfound appreciation for her opponents.