In her first match since a back injury sidelined her nearly three months ago, four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka battled to a hard-fought victory over qualifier Lina Glushko in the opening round of the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.
Osaka Overcomes Tough Test
The 6-4, 6-4 scoreline belied the challenge Osaka faced from the determined Glushko. The former world No. 1 had to dig deep, relying on her powerful serve and forehand to eventually prevail in a tight contest.
I had no idea what the score was most of the time. I just kept trying to tell myself one point at a time and trying not to get discouraged.
– Naomi Osaka
Osaka’s serve proved the key, firing seven aces and winning 74% of first serve points. Her coach Patrick Mouratoglou, famous for previously working with Serena Williams, watched approvingly from the stands.
Glimpses of Vintage Form
While understandably rusty after the extended layoff, Osaka still produced flashes of the shot-making brilliance that carried her to two Australian Open and two US Open titles. Her blazing forehand consistently troubled Glushko.
- Forehand winners: 11
- Backhand winners: 7
- Net points won: 8/11
The 25-year-old Japanese superstar moves into the second round in Auckland, as she builds towards the Australian Open later this month where she will seek to recapture the title she last won in 2021.
Relief and Gratitude
Osaka expressed satisfaction and relief to emerge with the victory in her first serious match since being forced out of last year’s China Open with the back problem that derailed the end of her 2024 campaign.
I think she’s a really amazing opponent. I’ve never played her before. It was good to have to scrap a little for the first round.
– Naomi Osaka on Lina Glushko
With the rust now shaken off, Osaka will look to quickly find her top gear as she chases a strong start to the new season. If her body cooperates, the gifted shotmaker has the firepower to rapidly ascend the rankings again.
Boost for Women’s Tour
Osaka’s successful return is a welcome boost for the WTA tour, which has struggled in recent times with the retirements of stars like Serena Williams and Ashleigh Barty. The popular Japanese player is one of the few needle-movers in women’s tennis.
- 4 Grand Slam singles titles
- Former world No. 1
- Global endorsement icon
At her best, Osaka has proven she can dominate the sport. If the injury issues that have plagued her in recent years are behind her, the powerful baseliner will be one of the players to beat at the big tournaments in 2025.
