Naomi Osaka hopes grand slam win brings ‘power and strength’ to Japanese people, 10 years on from devastating earthquake
- Japanese star dedicates win to ‘those whose lives have still yet to be fully put back together’ after 2011 earthquake
- The 23-year-old Osaka says focus is now on upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
“I would like to thank everyone in Japan for their continued warm support,” she said in a statement through her management company. “Since I heard there was another large quake in Japan recently, I also want to dedicate this win to those whose lives have still yet to be fully put back together following the ravages of the Great East Earthquake and tsunami [in 2011].”
The March 11 disaster 10 years ago saw more than 15,000 perish. An earthquake of magnitude 7.3 struck the same region late on February 13, injuring more than 150 people.
Osaka, who now counts four grand slam titles to her name having won both the Australian Open and the US Open twice, thanked stakeholders for allowing the tournament to go ahead amid the pandemic as well as fans worldwide.
“Seeing as we are still contending with the coronavirus on a daily basis, I would like to dedicate this victory to the people around the world who are doing what they can to help us escape its shadow.
“Although there has been a lot of sad news lately regarding the coronavirus and earthquakes, I think that we need to remember the importance of life and have an open heart to help one another in times like these.”
Yet the moment that might have warmed most hearts around the world was when she gently escorted a butterfly off the court during her third-round win over Ons Jabeur of Tunisia as it fluttered around before landing on her face.
“Recently, I am reminded about how important life is and I am trying to appreciate every moment while living my life to its fullest,” she said.
“I would be very happy if my victory can bring power/strength to the Japanese people and look forward to keep giving the best of myself in the upcoming Olympics, as I strive to become even stronger.
“I pray from the bottom of my heart that the power of tennis and sports will make the world a happier place.”
