Former world No. 1 tennis player Naomi Osaka is set to kick off her 2025 season at the ASB Tennis Classic in Auckland in January. Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam singles champion, recently returned to the sport after taking an 18-month hiatus to welcome her daughter, Shai. She is currently ranked 76th in singles and was eliminated in the second round of the U.S. Open on Aug. 29. In 2017, Osaka reached the quarterfinals when she last played in Auckland.

Following her U.S. Open defeat, Osaka parted ways with her coach. Tournament director Nicolas Lamperin expressed excitement about Osaka’s participation, highlighting her powerful and thrilling style of play. Lamperin believes Osaka, known for her hard-hitting game, is poised for a strong comeback in the 2025 season, which will commence in Auckland.

Osaka shared her enthusiasm for returning to Auckland, recalling pleasant memories of her previous visit. She mentioned looking forward to immersing herself in the city’s surroundings and competing in a tournament she hasn’t participated in for quite some time. Osaka fondly remembered a helicopter tour and the stunning beaches during her last visit, emphasizing her appreciation for Auckland’s natural beauty and delicious salmon.

The ASB Classic, a prominent tennis event, is scheduled to take place from Dec. 30 to Jan. 5, providing tennis fans with the opportunity to witness Osaka’s highly anticipated return to the court.