Naomi Osaka sends sweet message to her mother about unexpected coincidence at ASB Classic 2025

Naomi Osaka has expressed excitement about playing at a court with her mother's name on it. She reached the destination of 2025's first tournament, the ASB Tennis Classic in Auckland, New Zealand, scheduled from December 30, 2024 to January 5, 2025.

Osaka shared a few glimpses of her visit on her Instagram story:

Still from Naomi Osaka's Instagram story (@naomiosaka)

The Japanese player was surprised to her mother's name, Tamaki, written on the court as she prepared for the new season during her visit. She shared a message for her on another Instagram story.

"I made it to New Zealand. But look, it says Tamaki. Well, it says Tamaki Makaurau. But anyways, mom, I know you're going to see this. My mom's first name is Tamaki. Mom, look I am playing on a court that has your name on it," Naomi Osaka said.

Still from Naomi Osaka's Instagram story (@naomiosaka)

Osaka had to cut her 2024 season short due to an injury during the China Open. She reached the fourth round after besting Lucia Bronzetti, Yulia Putintseva, and Katie Volynets. She withdrew from the match against Coco Gauff, who won 3-6, 6-4, and from several subsequent tournaments, such as the Hong Kong Open, the Pan Pacific Open, and the Billie Jean King Cup.

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Naomi Osaka on about being inspired by her mother

In a 2021 conversation with People Magazine, Naomi Osaka spoke about her mother and how she inspired her:

"Growing up, I saw my mother work incredibly hard to support me and my passion for play. She always put others first and encouraged me to embrace my diversity. Every role model I've had has inspired me to dream big. To level up in every way.

And while I'm still working on how to be the best role model I can be, I want to show them that I stick to my beliefs and love who I am. Then maybe one day it will help them feel confident that it's okay to be different and create their own lane – as long as they remain true to themselves."

In a conversation with Today.com last year, the 27-year-old also called her mother an inspiration:

"My mom is someone who I really look up to and admire for the sacrifices she made for me and my sister growing up. I know having my own child will only bring us closer and I'm looking forward to that."

Osaka is herself a mother of one. She welcomed her daughter, Shai, in July 2023.