Italian Open: Naomi Osaka Mocks Herself in Praise of New-Age Stars Iga Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka as She Unveils Tennis Wish

Naomi Osaka “can’t think of” constantly maintaining the No. 1 position as the Polish tennis star Iga Swiatek is doing. She has been at the top of the WTA for 100 weeks in total at the age of 22. Several players in the past few years have taken the number 1 spot, but no one has been as consistent as the Polish star. In a recent statement from Naomi Osaka about the Polish star, Osaka seems to not only truly understand “the way she’s able to maintain being No.1” but also wishes to play with both Swiatek and Aryna Sabalenka one day. 

One of the most anticipated comeback stars of 2024 Naomi Osaka has beaten Clara Burel in the round of 128 7-6, 6-1 in the Rome masters. After the match, she sat down with the press to talk about the top two players in women’s tennis. When asked what she makes of Swiatek now, “Yeah, I mean, I always say this, but I think she’s incredible.”

She shared glowing remarks for Swiatek’s consistency as she mocked her own time at number 1. “The way she’s able to maintain being No.1 and constantly do well at all the tournaments is something that I honestly can’t think of or can’t fathom back when I was No. 1 for like five seconds (smiling). Yeah, I mean, I think she’s great for the sport.”

Osaka then talked about Aryna Sabalenka, “I also think watching Sabalenka doing so well is super, super fun. I hope that I’m able to play them both one day.” The Japanese player has nothing but praise for Swiatek and Sabalenka. The gesture was returned by the 2024 Madrid Open champion as she was excited for Osaka’s return.

Iga Swiatek was ‘really happy’ Naomi Osaka returned to the WTA Tour

At the 2024 Brisbane International, Naomi Osaka made her much-awaited comeback. The four-time grand slam champion faced down Tamara Korpatsch 6-3, 7-6, sealing a perfect return. Watching her win her first match on the Tour after a year, Swiatek was happy to see her return – “I’m really happy she’s back. I heard she’s really feeling well off-court, which is amazing to hear.” 

“It’s going to be nice to see her and catch up. Her tennis has always been great. She had ups and downs, but when she was playing great it was hard to win vs. her. She won 4 Slams in 2 years. Really amazing. She showed it’s possible.”  

Osaka has replied to Swiatek with similar praise as the two players continue to exchange kind comments. They will continue to show us quality tennis, but will we see them face each other anytime soon?