"I was a kid that got kicked out of public courts" - Osaka remembers humble beginnings
WTA
Naomi Osaka paid an emotional tribute to those who attended a meet-and-greet for her book, The Way Champs Play.
Osaka is already engaged in many activities off the court. She co-founded a production company called Hana Kuma and was thrilled when its first work, a documentary called Mink, received an Emmy nomination.
The four-time Grand Slam champion also founded the Play Academy, which supports kids worldwide to help them play, do activities, and engage in other after-school programs.
Partaking in those activities alongside being a full-time tennis player means Osaka probably gets little time to herself as it is, The former WTA world No. 1 had a challenging 2022 season by her high standards, not reaching the fourth round at any of the Grand Slams.
However, in a recent television appearance, Osaka allayed any fears about her commitment to tennis. The 25-year-old always wants to return to the court and work hard when she has not played for a while.
Osaka somehow found time in her busy schedule to write The Way Champs Play, a rhythmic picture book celebrating sport and play. She held a meet-and-greet to mark the release of her work.
The Japanese star's fame has not made her forget her roots. Osaka expressed gratitude on social media to everyone who attended the meet-and-greet and remembered being kicked out of public courts as a child.
“To everyone that came out tonight I’m so thankful and grateful. I was literally a kid that sometimes got kicked out of public courts. To now be able to have a book and to have people come out on a Thursday evening to get it for their relatives is something I’ll treasure forever. I love you. P.s : if you bump into me please don’t cry cause it’s gonna make me start crying."
