Naomi Osaka

Naomi Osaka won back-to-back Grand Slam titles to become World No. 1 in January of 2019, the first Japanese player - male or female - to sit atop the rankings and just the 26th female in history to reach this milestone. She is also the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam title after defeating 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams (USA) at the 2018 US Open. Dropping only one set en route to her first major title, the 20-year-old was dominant in her road to the Championship.

Born in Osaka, Japan, Osaka was taught tennis at an early age by her father, who followed the blueprint Richard Williams set after being inspired by his daughters - Venus and Serena - in the late ’90’s. Relatively unknown, Osaka, who began using Yonex racquets at a young age, rarely participated in junior tournaments, opting for the ITF women’s circuit when she turned 14. She turned pro at 15 and won her first WTA match at the 2014 Stanford Classic after defeating 19th-ranked Samantha Stosur.

Representing Japan, Naomi's powerful serve strikes fear in competitors around the world. Her offense-heavy play style is complemented by her big forehand and strong backhand. She's come to be known as an aggressive, offensive baseliner with some of her fastest serves clocking in at 125mph.