Naomi Osaka is setting her sights on making a significant impact in 2026, particularly as she prepares for the Australian Open, a tournament where she has previously claimed two of her four Grand Slam titles. Following a strong performance in 2025, where she reached the finals of the WTA 1000 in Canada and the semifinals of the US Open, Osaka recognizes the need for further improvement in her game to reclaim her status as the world’s top player.
Her journey towards this goal starts at the 2026 Australian Open. With a renewed focus and positive mindset, Osaka expresses gratitude for her health and is excited about her growth as a player. Reflecting on her recent experiences, she noted, “I played the United Cup for the first time, so it was a very nice experience for me. Although we lost early, I had a lot of fun and was able to play two matches, which was positive. I feel quite good for this tournament.”
Osaka has been actively working on critical aspects of her game with coach Tomasz Wiktorowski during the preseason. She aims to enhance her decision-making on the court, which she believes will allow her to become a more aggressive and determined player. She recalls her past experiences at the US Open, where some moments left her feeling regretful, and she hopes to eliminate those feelings in the upcoming tournament.
Melbourne holds special memories for Osaka, not only because of her victories but also for the personal joys she finds there, such as dining with her team and biking by the water. “Obviously, my best memories are related to the two titles I won here. But I also value simpler things,” she mentioned, emphasizing her commitment to enjoying both the city and the game.
As she approaches her first match of the year, Osaka acknowledges the challenges and nerves that come with it. Her newfound focus on being more aggressive and trusting her shots reflects her dedication to refining her strategy on the court. She aims to embrace her authentic self without apologies, aiming for enjoyment and confidence in her decisions.
Osaka concludes with a hopeful outlook, revealing her ambition for the 2026 season and a desire to represent tennis in a meaningful way. As she strives for her third Australian Open title, her dedication to improvement and personal growth inspires fans and aspiring athletes alike.