Naomi Osaka surprised Wimbledon by eliminating Aryna Sabalenka, the current world number 1, in a display that has already sparked dreams of the champion's return to the grand stages in London. The Japanese four-time Grand Slam titleholder exceeded all expectations, asserting herself with authority and showcasing a renewed confidence on the sacred grass.
In the aftermath of her victory, Osaka shared in a press conference what she considered to be the secret to her success against the Belarusian. “From a tactical standpoint, there are only certain things you can do against her up to a point. I think, obviously, we are both players who hit the ball with great power. From my side, I’m certainly not going to run all over the court trying to force an error from her. I can only focus on my strengths. I really tried to serve well because it’s played on grass. Additionally, I tried to take the initiative in the rallies from the start. And I believe that worked really well today,” Osaka explained, visibly pleased with the plan she executed.
When asked about what has changed for her to feel so comfortable playing on grass now, the Japanese player was emphatic: “Without a doubt, I would say that when I was younger, my relationship with grass and Wimbledon was not the best. I’m not sure why I feel so at ease on this surface this year. I think I did a lot of exercises with Tomasz. Most of them weren't even specific to grass. It was mainly about recognizing game patterns and feeling comfortable with my tennis. Honestly, I think throughout the year he helped me feel more confident in my movements and game plans against my opponents.”
O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO
Osaka also spoke about the mental transformation she underwent after some less favorable results, highlighting a decisive moment following her defeat in Rome: “The people who have been by my side, even for many years, have always tried to help me in this aspect. I believe the change came after Rome. I lost to Iga very clearly. I felt that I completely shut myself off from everyone. I literally took a plane and went home. It wasn’t the most professional behavior. I didn’t talk to my team. I was very ashamed of what I did. After that incident, I told myself: ‘Hey, I’m approaching 30, I really need to make the most of the time I have.’ Obviously, tennis is very, very important to me, but I also have a life outside of this sport. I need to give tennis the right value, without giving it excessive importance,” confided the former world number one.
The victory over Sabalenka could mark a turning point for Osaka this season, showing that she is ready to return to competing among the best. This information was not indicated in the original text.
[NOW YOU CAN FOLLOW](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/uefa-critica-fifa-e-infantino-pelo-escandalo-do-caso-balogun/) THE WORLD CUP WITH ALL THE INFORMATION – [HERE](https://mundialfutebol.com/)
Discover more from Apito Final
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
