Naomi Osaka secured her first top 20 win as a mother by defeating Liudmila Samsonova at Indian Wells with a score of 7-5, 6-3. Prior to this victory, she had also won against Sara Errani to progress to this stage in the tournament.
Naomi Osaka corrected an interviewer’s slip-up and shared a humorous moment in her post-match interview. When asked about the pressures of returning to the sport after being World Number One, she jokingly remarked that Iga Swiatek has been number one for four years, downplaying her own reign and adding a lighthearted touch to the conversation..
Naomi Osaka, gaining momentum in her journey back towards the top, is set to face Elise Mertens for a spot in the Last 16. Meanwhile, Iga Swiatek’s next challenge is against Linda Noskova, with revenge on her mind after losing to Noskova at the Australian Open. This further highlights the high regard in which Swiatek is held in the tennis world..
During the interview, the interviewer highlighted the challenges of being the No. 1 player, taking time away, and making a comeback on the biggest stages. Naomi Osaka, in a light-hearted response, corrected the statement by saying, “I wasn’t the number one player – Iga; Iga’s been number one for like four years,” accompanied by laughter. This exchange showcased Osaka’s humor and humility..
Naomi Osaka after getting 1st top 20 win as a mom
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 10, 2024
“I don’t think we can understand how difficult it is to be the #1 player, take time away, & then come back on the biggest stages.”
Naomi: “I wasn’t the #1 player. Iga has been #1 for like 4 years” 😂 pic.twitter.com/BwNknfJMzW