Naomi Osaka has what it takes to get back to the elite level in the WTA, according to tennis coach Rick Macci.
Osaka is gearing up for a return to the WTA tour in early 2024 following a period of intense training. Moreover, the four-time Grand Slam champion recently announced that she would be making her comeback at the 2024 Brisbane Open, most likely with the view of practicing ahead of next year's Australian Open.
There has been plenty of positivity about the 26-year-old's long-awaited return after she has been absent from the courts for over a year. While Osaka has a long road back to reclaiming number one status, coach Macci said on his official Twitter channel the two-time Australian Open winner has what it takes to get to the top again.
"Was asked again if I still think @Naomiosaka can be top ten by the end of the year. 100%. Once she gets back into the battle and feels the Pain of losing in the Beginning the 4time Grand Slam Champ will dig deep in that treasure trove of Confidence and do Major league Winning."
Osaka has been absent from the WTA tour for a year after she announced her pregnancy ahead of the 2023 Australian Open. Then, the 26-year-old gave birth to her first child in July but has since committed to her return to competitive tennis in 2024.
The Japanese player first rose to tennis stardom in 2018 when she won the US Open. Years of success followed when Osaka went on to win another Slam at Flushing Meadows in 2020, while she also won the Australian Open twice in 2019 and 2021.
However, the former world number one has been in and out of the game in recent years. Before she became a mother, Osaka revealed in 2021 how she struggled with depression and anxiety, which led to her withdrawal from the Roland Garros that year.
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