For the first time since withdrawing from the French Open, Naomi Osaka will compete in a WTA event. Earlier today, she was spotted practicing for the Cincinnati Open, which begins on August 16.

The World No. 2 last played in the Tokyo Olympics, where she carried the hopes of her country for a medal. However, she suffered a shock loss in the third round to eventual silver medalist Marketa Vondrousova.

Naomi Osaka spotted practicing on the courts of the Cincinnati Open 2021

Osaka withdrew from the French Open earlier this year citing mental health issues. Although she skipped the Wimbledon Championships, she made a comeback at the Olympics last month. This drew positive reactions from fans across the world, who initially lauded her for bringing the importance of mental health in the spotlight.

Billed as a favorite to taste gold in Tokyo, the 24-year-old recorded convincing victories in her first two matches. However, Vondrousova caused the biggest upset of the tournament, beating Osaka in straight sets 6-1, 6-4.

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With the US Open in less than three weeks, several players are competing in warmup tournaments. Earlier this month, Osaka announced her withdrawal from the National Bank Open 2021. However, fans of the Japanese star received a positive update as she practiced her serve on the courts of Cincinnati.

With her World No. 2 ranking, Osaka will be the top in the women’s singles category. This is because Ashleigh Barty will miss the tournament.

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Can Osaka secure her maiden Cincinnati Open title?

Last year, she finished runner-up to World No. 15 Victoria Azarenka in this tournament. However, she went on to clinch the ultimate prize by winning the US Open in 2020.

The women’s singles category of the Cincinnati Open will have a new champion as Azarenka is competing in the National Bank Open. This places Osaka in prime position to clinch her maiden Cincinnati Open title.

Despite her setback in Tokyo, the 24-year-old’s prowess on hard courts is unmatched at the moment. However, her loss to Vondrousova showed she isn’t immune to upsets.

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