'I think she’s great for the sport,' Naomi Osaka remarks on Iga Swiatek’s dominance as WTA World No. 1

She's incredible. The way she's able to maintain being No.1 & 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 5 seconds..Yeah, I mean, I think she's great for the sport. said Naomi Osaka via Rome Open press

Furthermore, Osaka also praised Aryna Sabalenka. The Belarusian even replaced Swiatek as WTA No.1, but was soon outdone by the Pole. Osaka hopes to face both of them soon. 

I also think watching Sabalenka doing so well is super, super fun. I hope that I'm able to play them both one day. Naomi Osaka added

Osaka is currently competing at the Italian Open. After taking a rather extended break from tennis due to mental health issues and pregnancy, the Japanese pro is back with a new motive of getting herself up the rankings. After having an improved run on the hard court, Osaka looks to do one better on clay. 

Naomi Osaka beat Clara Burel to register her first Rome Open victory in over three years

Japanese ace Naomi Osaka made her return to Rome after a three-year absence. It was the first time she stepped into Italy’s courts since 2021 and got off to a flying start. Osaka was up against Clara Burel in the first round on Wednesday. 

The first set was a rather adventurous one for both of them. While the French tried to dominate, Osaka emerged victorious at the first set tie-break to lead the match. Soon, she even won the second set convincingly and the match. 

I thought the first set was really tough. I'm really glad I was able to close it in two. said Naomi Osaka during the post-match conference

With this, Osaka made her way to the second round, where she is set to compete against the in-form Marta Kostyuk. Another great challenge for the Japanese, who hope to do well in clay in preparation for the Olympics.