Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka, 27, recently put down the tennis racket in favor of a pickleball paddle. Her skills carried her well in a match against comedian Kevin Hart.
Hart posted news of the match on his Instagram account. In typical Kevin Hart fashion, he made it sound like he was a formidable opponent for Osaka.
Naomi Osaka is seen smiling in the match video Hart shared. She continues to embody a new demeanor after giving birth to her daughter Shai in 2023.
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The best news is that Kevin Hart emerged from the match unscathed. In August 2023, he decided to race retired NFL star Stevan Ridley in a 40-yard dash. Hart genuinely believed he could beat Ridley. Things did not go well for him. He was severely injured and ended up wheelchair-bound afterward.
Kevin Hart thought he could beat former #Patriots RB Stevan Ridley in a 40-yard dash.
He couldn’t.
Not only did he lose the race, but Hart also suffered a torn lower abdomen, which has now left him in a wheelchair. 😬
pic.twitter.com/paScrDZJNJ— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 24, 2023
What To Expect From Naomi Osaka In 2025
2024 was her official return to the WTA Tour. It had its ups and downs, but many believe vintage Osaka will return in 2025, especially with new coach Patrick Mountaglou by her side.
Osaka nearly defeated Iga Swiatek at the French Open on the clay which is not her favorite surface or where her greatest wins have happened. She needs to start and finish matches better this year. Last season, there were times when she started well and faded, or started slowly and came on strong when it was too late.
Keeping the intensity from start to finish will be necessary, especially at the Australian Open. She is a two-time champion, and the hardcourt is her best surface. The two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka will be the favorite to make it a three-peat, but World No. 58 Osaka could be in the mix in Melbourne.
Returning to the WTA Tour from maternity leave has historically been a big challenge. It will be interesting to see if Osaka can follow in Kim Clijsters’ footsteps and win a Grand Slam singles title as a mother.
