Naomi Osaka revealed that a wildfire is threatening her Los Angeles home, prompting her to take precautions to protect her family’s important belongings. In a recent interview, the two-time Australian Open champion disclosed that she had someone retrieve her daughter’s birth certificate, a cherished item she did not want to risk losing to the flames. This revelation came after Osaka began her campaign at Melbourne Park with a hard-fought victory over Caroline Garcia, winning 6-3, 3-6, 6-3.
Following her win against Garcia, who had defeated her in last year’s Australian Open, Osaka was asked about the ongoing fires in California. The situation has escalated, with more than 12,000 structures reported destroyed. Despite focusing on her performance at the tournament, Osaka expressed deep concern for her home and the memories tied to it. “I was watching the fire map, and the fire is three blocks from my house,” she said, emphasizing the emotional weight of the situation. “It’s really difficult for me because I think it’s tougher now that my home feels more like a home with memories of my daughter.”
Osaka, who welcomed her first child, a baby girl named Shai, in July 2023, noted that her motivation to succeed has shifted since becoming a mother. “I want to win Slams for my daughter and make her proud,” she stated. As she prepares for her next match against Karolina Muchova, a player against whom she has faced both victories and defeats, Osaka remains focused on her goals while keeping her family’s safety in mind.
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