Even after her retirement, Serena Williams is in various people’s conversations. The American tennis legend is a huge part of the sport and has gained respect outside of the court as well. Now, her fans believe that Naomi Osaka, the Japanese tennis ace, is the closest person who can fill the gap that Serena’s absence will create in tennis.

Both players didn’t have a good run at the US Open earlier this month. While the 23-time grand slam champion retired from tennis after her defeat in the third round, the 24-year-old Japanese star couldn’t advance to the second round. However, the four-time grand slam champion is ready to play in front of her home crowd as she is all geared up for the Tokyo Open.

Naomi Osaka opens up about stepping into Serena Williams’ shoes

Osaka has always idolized the younger Williams sister since her formative years in tennis. Recently, the 24-year-old opened about the tennis legend. After the former world number one announced her retirement, Serena Williams fans wanted Osaka to follow in her footsteps, but that’s not on the plan for the Japanese. 

The four time grand slam champion doesn’t seem eager to take on others’ responsibility and instead wants to focus on her own game. She said, “I think for me, I’ve kind of gotten over trying to fill people’s shoes,” 

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Osaka further talks about how every athlete is a different person and has a different run. She added, “I don’t think you can ever do that because everyone’s unique. We’re all kind of forging our own paths and we’re all on our own journeys, but I think it’s really incredible all the stuff she’s done for the sport and even beyond that.“

Osaka to play in front of her home crowd

For more than a year now, the former world number one has not been in good form, as she was trying to overcome injuries and mental health problems. However, the Tokyo Open will take place for the first time since the covid-19 pandemic. 

The four time grand slam winner is positive about returning to form. Playing in front of her home crowd will be of addition help as she has won one Tokyo Open title and played in the finals thrice in the past. The Japanese tennis will begin her campaign in Tokyo against Daria Saville of Australia in the first round of the tournament.

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