Naomi Osaka has had an eventful year. After announcing her pregnancy in 2022, she missed the entire of the 2023 season. In July this year, she gave birth to her first child with boyfriend Cordae. Additionally, there were also rumors about troubles between her and Cordae. But the Japanese star has stayed strong and quashed those rumors. Recently, she announced her comeback six months after becoming a first-time mother. However, her move has led to some scrutiny from a WTA veteran.

After being out of action for almost 15 months, Osaka will make a comeback early next year. It has raised the eyebrows of German tennis star, Angelique Kerber.

What did Angelique Kerber say about Naomi Osaka?

Like Osaka, Kerber also welcomed her child this year in February. She gave birth to her daughter, Liana early this year. Recently, she was involved in an interview with Bild where she talked about her comeback while comparing it with Osaka’s return.

Kerber was asked about her comeback games in Australia and how it will coincide with the return of the likes of Osaka, Rafael Nadal, and Emma Raducanu. Talking about this, she said, “This will definitely be interesting. I’m particularly excited about Rafael Nadal and of course Naomi Osaka.”

Further, she went on to add, “She became a mother in July and is already coming back. After only half a year. I’ll take a look at that! These comebacks are all good for tennis.”

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While Kerber will return to action at the United Cup in Sydney and Perth, Osaka will be back at the Brisbane International. These tournaments will serve as a warmup for the players before the Australian Open.

Read More: Ahead of Naomi Osaka’s Monumental Comeback, ATP Buddy Chris Eubanks Shares Optimism Running Through His Veins

Meanwhile, Osaka has missed being in action all through the 2023 season. Recently, she made clear her 2024 ambitions with a big revelation.

Osaka’s big plans for 2024 season

While announcing her comeback at the Brisbane International, Osaka also hinted about her plans for the upcoming season. The Japanese star wants to get back to her best that saw her win Grand Slam titles.

Revealing her ambitions, she said, “I think I’ve just missed the competition. I’m a very competitive person, so it’s been really cool to see so many players doing really well, and so many like new faces. And I think what I wish to accomplish a lot when I get back on the court, so hopefully, I do well on grass and clay next year.”

However, it won’t be a cakewalk for Osaka after being on the sidelines for months. Can she make a strong comeback in 2024? Let us know your views in the comments below.

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