The remarkable return of Naomi Osaka: semi-finals in Auckland and a decisive turning point in her career.

Naomi Osaka is making headlines again, not only for her hard-hitting tennis but also for her candid thoughts on her future in the sport. After a 15-month maternity leave and a complex return to the court, the four-time Grand Slam champion found her rhythm at the Auckland Open, reaching her first semi-finals in two years. However, Osaka has hinted that 2025 could be a defining season, considering retirement if she fails to meet her own expectations.

A strong comeback in Auckland

Osaka, seeded number seven in Auckland, has gradually rebuilt her game. After a straight sets victory against Lina Glushko to start her 2025 campaign, she followed up with a fine 7-5, 6-3 victory against Julia Grabher, thus reaching the quarter-finals. She faced a major challenge against Hailey Baptiste, losing the first set after a tie-break.

However, Osaka showed her resilience, dominating the next two sets with a hard-hitting serve and great precision. His performance, marked by nine aces, allowed him to win 6-7(2), 6-1, 6-2, thus signing his first appearance in the semi-final since his second place at the Miami Open in 2023.

After this victory, Osaka attributed her success to confidence and perseverance.

“I think the keys to my approach have been having a lot of faith and confidence in myself. I worked a lot last year, and even though the results didn’t show it, I continue to try my best and see where it takes me,” she told Forbes.

Osaka will face Katie Volynets or Alycia Parks in the semi-finals, aiming to win her first title since the 2021 Australian Open.

A High-Stakes Season: Retirement Considered

While Osaka’s recent success bodes well, she has also hinted that she may consider retirement if her own standards are not met this year. Following her first-round victory, Osaka was candid about her priorities, emphasizing the importance of balancing her career and motherhood.

“I don’t think I’m the type of player to stay too long. At this stage of my life, if I’m not above a certain ranking, I don’t see myself playing for long. I would rather spend time with my daughter if I’m not where I think I should be,” she said.

Osaka’s willingness to consider the possibility of withdrawal underscores its commitment to excellence. With her current ranking and form, she is determined to prove that she still has her place among the sport’s elite.

Towards Melbourne: Creating Impulse

The Auckland Open is a crucial tune-up for Osaka ahead of the Australian Open, where she has triumphed twice. Although her journey in Melbourne promises to be difficult with formidable opponents, the confidence and tenacity she developed in Auckland could give her the momentum needed to challenge for her fifth Grand Slam title.

However, consistency will remain a key factor. Osaka’s recent struggles with injuries and form suggest that maintaining a high standard over multiple matches will be her biggest challenge. If she succeeds in Auckland, it would not only mark a stunning comeback, but also set the tone for a potentially career-defining season.

A Career at the Crossroads

Naomi Osaka’s journey in 2025 is as much a quest for personal fulfillment as it is a path to professional success. His return to the semifinals symbolizes a renewal, but his open acknowledgment of the possibility of retirement adds emotional weight to each of his matches. Whether she achieves her goals or decides to step aside, Osaka’s legacy as a pioneer in tennis and beyond is already firmly established.