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WNBA’s American Sensation Sabrina Ionescu Surprises Naomi Osaka With a Heartfelt Gift Stemming From Her Unrelenting Dedication

Published 09/21/2023, 6:55 AM EDT

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With four Grand Slam titles under her name, Japanese tennis star, Naomi Osaka has inspired millions of people around the world. Despite facing the constant pressure to do well, Osaka focused on her dream. Now, the people who have seen her journey are coming up front to thank her. One such celebrity is Sabrina Ionescu, a WNBA star who sent a special gift to Osaka for being her inspiration during her career.

Naomi Osaka is taking a break from the sport for now, recovering from her recent childbirth. However, her achievements continue to be cherished by those who have learned valuable lessons from her.

Naomi Osaka gets a shout-out from WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu

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The Japanese tennis star recently received a package that contained a message of gratitude with a special gift from one of her well-renowned fans. Naomi Osaka took to her Instagram story to share the heartfelt gesture by the American basketball player Sabrina Ionescu.

Osaka showed the unboxing of the gift she received. There was a personal message for Osaka by the basketball player. It talked about the people who have inspired her to be where she is today. “And you are one of those people- someone dedicated to their craft because they love it, who gives their all, and who never settles for good, because they want to be great,” Sabrina wrote.

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Osaka opened the box and found the limited edition kit of the WNBA star. It also had her first signature shoes, along with other assets. Sharing such an achievement with Osaka showed Ionescu’s admiration for the tennis star.

Most-Loved WTA Star Joins Hands With Naomi Osaka as the Duo Takes $100,000,000 Inspiration From Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian to Make a Giant Sporting Move

Even if Osaka is currently not active on the court and is recuperating from childbirth, she is surely missing the court. However, she is preparing for her comeback already and there is a popular duo that is inspiring her.

Osaka takes inspiration from Venus and Serena Williams ahead of her comeback

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It is Venus and Serena Williams who inspired Osaka to play tennis. And it is the two sisters again who she looks to for inspiration while she prepares for her comeback. Though the dates have not been confirmed of Osaka’s comeback, she is dearly missing the Australian Open. She could not be a part of this year’s Australian Open, which was devastating for her.

However, she realized her love for the sport owing to Venus and Serena Williams. She stated when she saw the two players compete in the finals of 2017 Australian Open finals; she thought she would never do that at that age. However, after missing her first Australian Open, she confessed she might do the same. 

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Do you think Osaka can regain her winning form on the court? Let us know your views in the comments below.

WATCH THIS STORY: ‘I Love…’ – Naomi Osaka Points to the Ancient Technique She Relies on for Keeping Calm 2 Years After Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas Vouched for It

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Written by:

Shivali Sharma

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Shivali Sharma is a tennis writer at EssentiallySports, who specializes in off-court topics and has a particular focus on the legendary ‘Queen of the Court’, Serena Williams. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Shivali has authored numerous articles covering varied topics concerning the 23-time Grand Slam champion, including her personal life, career, and more. In addition to her work on Serena Williams, Shivali is also a huge fan of Naomi Osaka and admires the four-time Major winner, particularly for her advocacy for mental health.
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Edited by:

Vishav