Naomi Osaka’s father was greatly inspired by the success of Venus and Serena Williams. As a result, the Osaka family moved to the United States when Naomi was three years old so that she and her sister could pursue tennis. Instead of competing in junior tournaments, Osaka was again inspired by the Williams’ sisters and began her career on professional satellite tours. Osaka’s professional career began in 2012 on the ITF Circuit. In 2015, she competed in her first major tournaments, Wimbledon and the US Open. In 2016 and 2017, Osaka reached the third round of the US Open. Also in 2017, Osaka joined the Japanese Fed Cup Team.

Osaka’s career took off in 2018, when she finished the year ranked No. 5. She won her first professional title that year at Indian Wells. Her second professional title that year came at the US Open. In the US Open finals, Osaka defeated Serena Williams 6-2, 6-4.

Osaka continued to shine in 2019, winning numeorus titles including the Australian Open, Toray Pan Pacific Open, and China Open. At the China Open, Osaka defeated world No. 1 Ashleigh Barty in the final 3-6, 6-3, 6-2. Osaka reached No. 1 in singles that year and became the first Asian player to accomplish the feat.

2020 was Osaka’s third year finishing among the Top 5. She claimed the US Open title again after defeating Victoria Azarenka in the finals, becoming the 20th woman to win at least three majors in the Open Era. In 2021, she won the Australian Open for a fourth Grand Slam title, defeating Serena Williams in the semifinal and Jennifer Brady in the final, 6-4, 6-3. Osaka also represented Japan at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Before the 2021 French Open, Osaka announced that she would not be taking part in her mandatory media obligations at the tournament. After winning her first round, Osaka withdrew from the tournament, citing overwhelming mental health concerns. Osaka’s openness started a global dialogue on mental health in sports. In 2023, Osaka announced her pregnancy and intention to return for the 2024 season.

After returning from maternity leave, Osaka experienced some difficulties with form. However, in 2025, Osaka succeeded in reaching the finals of the Canadian Open and the semifinals of the US Open.