Naomi Osaka’s Eight Year Wait Ends in Grand Style

Despite not playing for over a month, Japanese star Naomi Osaka has found her rhythm quickly at the ongoing Tokyo Olympics. She is now through to the third round, defeating Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic in straight sets, 6-3, 6-2. Following that, the 23-year-old expressed her feelings about playing at the Games for her country.

Earlier, at the French Open 2021, Osaka denied participating in the mandatory media interviews. However, she is now ‘happy’ to talk to the press at the Olympics.

Notably, Osaka became the first tennis player in history to light the Olympics cauldron. Moreover, as a home favorite, the Japanese star is now looking forward to winning the biggest prize, a gold medal.

In conversation with US TV, the four-time Grand Slam champion remarked the Games as ‘interesting.’ Additionally, Osaka emphasised that she has been waiting to represent Japan since she became serious about a career in tennis.

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“Honestly, it’s a bit interesting. The flag is next to my name no matter what tournament I play, but I feel like the scale of this is much bigger. It’s something I’ve been waiting for for eight years,” Osaka said.

Despite it being her debut at the Games, her performance has been exceptional. Additionally, after the first round exit of Ashleigh Barty, the second seed Osaka has become the biggest favorite in Tokyo Olympics.

Furthermore, the Olympics come with their unique prestige and reputation. Hence, Osaka would go for the gold medal and extend her name in the list of tennis greats further ahead.