Naomi Osaka has had a quiet 2022 season thus far. Boasting immense potential, she is yet to win a title this year. Her best result came at the Miami Open, where she reached the finals. However, she couldn’t overcome the challenge of Iga Swiatek in the summit clash. Apart from this, the Japanese star has had a disappointing run in other tournaments.

Moreover, Osaka has been troubled with an Achilles injury throughout this season. It forced her to miss the Italian Open ahead of the French Open. It is the same injury that also resulted in Osaka skipping the grass-court season. Recently, she paid an emotional tribute to one of her star countrymen.

Naomi Osaka expresses her emotions after Yuzuru Hanyu retires

Yesterday, Japan’s Yuzuru Hanyu, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, quit competitive figure skating, ending an illustrious career. Subsequently, Osaka took to Instagram to pay her tribute to the legendary sporting hero.

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Posting a story on her official Instagram handle about his retirement, Osaka added a teary-eyed emoji and a clap emoji to her post.

Announcing his retirement via a news conference in Tokyo, Yuzuru Hanyu said, “As far as competitions and results go, I think I have been able to take all the things I wanted to take. Being Yuzuru Hanyu is a heavy burden.”

Osaka announces a packed US Open swing

The 24-year-old has outlined her plans for the upcoming tournaments. Recently, she confirmed that she’ll be playing at the Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic. The WTA 500 tournament will take place in San Jose from August 1. The Japanese star has received a wildcard entry to play in the tournament.

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After this tournament, Osaka will also be playing in Toronto and Cincinnati before going to Flushing Meadows. Can Osaka find her lost mojo back during the US Open swing? Let us know your views in the comments below.