“Working to Ensure More Girls Stay”: Naomi Osaka Steps Into New Endeavors of Tennis

Japan’s rising sensation Naomi Osaka has been amongst the rising stars in the women’s game. Her performances in the past couple of years have been exceptional. She’s won three grand slams in her career so far; two at the US Open and one at the Australian Open. 

Osaka was first noticed during her final against Serena Williams. Reflecting back on that match, the odds seemed quite against the young Japanese. Serena was fuming at the chair umpire and the New York crowd was on the American’s side. These circumstances could’ve led to Naomi losing focus on such a grand stage. However, she held her nerve to win the match in straight sets that evening. 

Naomi Osaka: Going to ensure more girls stay in the sport

Recently, the Japanese involved herself in an association with Laureus, in creating the Play Academy. It is aimed to change the livelihood of young girls through games and sports. It is designed to provide equal opportunities for girls through the strength of sport. Osaka said, “I’m so proud that through Play Academy, we’re going to be working to ensure more girls stay in the sport, building confidence, self-esteem and leadership skills, giving them the support they need to succeed in other aspects of life.”

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The former world no. 1 was grateful to Laureus and the other partners for extending their support for this cause. This social cause taken up by Naomi couldn’t come at a better time, since most of the world is suffering from the effects of the pandemic. She further asserted:

“I’m so thankful to Laureus and its partner MUFG for supporting Play Academy. Together with Nike, Mastercard, and our other partners, we’ll be able to make a positive impact on young women and girls. Sport today is more important than ever for society, especially for girls growing up in marginalized communities.”

In around two weeks’ time from now, players will board the flight to Melbourne for the first major of the coming season. Fans will look forward to seeing Osaka on the tennis courts at Melbourne Park.