Osaka returned to the tour in 2024 after a 15-month break ​following the birth of her daughter and reached ⁠the U.S. Open semi-finals ⁠last year. She withdrew ahead of her scheduled third-round match at the ⁠Australian ‌Open in January due to an abdominal injury. The four-time Grand Slam champion lost to world number one Aryna Sabalenka ⁠in the Indian Wells pre-quarterfinals this month before another ​early exit in ‌Miami. Asked about her plans for the clay season, Osaka said ⁠she is weighing ​the demands of the tour with the time she wants to spend at home. I want to be the best mom I can, but sometimes I feel like I know ⁠what I have to do to become a really good player, and it's very difficult.

Source: The Star March 22, 2026 14:14 UTC