Naomi Osaka confirms her return to WTA Tour in Brisbane

The 26-year-old had her first child in July and has not played since September 2022

AI / Reuters / Panoramic

November 10, 2023

Former world No 1 Naomi Osaka will make her much-anticipated return to the WTA Tour when she plays in the Brisbane International in late December.

The 26-year-old Japanese, who had her first child in July and who last played since September 2022, says she can’t wait to get back as she begins what will be a full-time return to the Tour.

“I am really excited about getting back out on court and competing,” Osaka said in a statement released by the tournament’s website.

“I always love starting my season in Brisbane and can’t wait to return. The Brisbane International is such a great tournament and will set me up for a brilliant comeback this summer.”

First tournament next year 😖 so excited, I haven’t been to Brisbane in a while. https://t.co/QpCvtBRGUu
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) November 10, 2023

The Brisbane International is back on the calendar for the first time since 2020, having been cancelled in each of the past three years due to the Coronavirus pandemic. (The WTA event was moved to Adelaide).

Murray in men’s field alongside Rune and Dimitrov

Osaka will be joined by two-time former champion Victoria Azarenka in the women’s field, while the men’s event will feature Andy Murray, the former world No 1.

Murray said last week that he was not enjoying his tennis at the moment but the 36-year-old’s inclusion suggests that he is at least going to play on for another year.

“It’s great to see the Brisbane International back and I am really looking forward to returning to Queensland this summer,” Murray said. “I have great memories of winning the title in 2012 and 2013 and I would love to lift the trophy again for a third time in Brisbane.”

World No 10 Holger Rune and No 14 Grigor Dimitrov are also named among early entrants for the men’s event.

The Brisbane International runs from December 31, 2023 to January 7, 2024.