Naomi Osaka playing down expectations: “I have to be realistic and kind to myself”

The former world No 1 was encouraged by her form in Doha but knows it will take time to regain top form

(Zuma/Panoramic)

March 7, 2024

It is six years since Naomi Osaka burst onto the world scene by winning Indian Wells, a victory that put her on the path to Grand Slam glory later the same year.

A lot has happened in the intervening six years, including three more slams, struggles with her mental health, the birth of her first child and most recently, a comeback to the Tour.

Going into the Australian Open, Osaka told Tennis Majors that she felt she could win a Grand Slam title this year. A first-round loss there, and another in Abu Dhabi soon after, was a reality check and though she showed improved form in Doha, the Japanese goes into Indian Wells trying not to get ahead of herself.

2018 champion @naomiosaka is ready to create more magic in #TennisParadise 🪄 pic.twitter.com/feXepFr4Jr
— BNP Paribas Open (@BNPPARIBASOPEN) March 3, 2024

“I’ve always told people I’m a perfectionist and I’ve had dreams while I was pregnant of what I wanted to achieve, Osaka told reporters in Indian Wells on Wednesday. “Obviously, losing in the first round of the Australian Open wasn’t in my dreams but I think I have to be realistic and kind to myself. I don’t want to be as ‘downer’ too much in this part of my career.”

“When I was in Doha and I got to the quarters I was really happy about that. Of course I would like to have gone further, but I’m in the top 200 now and I’m actually really happy about that.”

Patience and resilience

In her time away from the Tour, Osaka said she had learned many things.

“I’ve learned a lot of patience”” she said. “Also resilience…I think you have to go through a lot of things playing tennis and you also have to be patient because things might not go your way. Eventually, if you keep trying they might. And if not, you have to try again another day.”

Osaka plays Sara Errani of Italy in her first match in Indian Wells on Thursday.