Naomi Osaka's US Open 2024 participation uncertain amid performance slump
What's the story
Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka is currently facing a challenging period in her career.
Her recent performance has raised questions about her potential participation in the main draw of the US Open 2024.
Despite not receiving a wildcard for the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati, she competed in the qualifiers but was defeated by USA's Ashlyn Krueger.
She lost in three sets. Before that, she won her maiden qualifying match against Anna Blinkova.
Here's more.
Review
Osaka's recent losses and current world ranking
Osaka's defeat in Cincinnati followed a second-round loss to Belgium's Elise Mertens at the National Bank Open in Canada.
Before that, she was ousted in the women's singles first round at 2024 Paris Olympics.
She also exited in the second round of both the French Open and Wimbledon this year.
Currently, Osaka is ranked 90th globally, which does not guarantee her direct entry into the US Open set to begin on August 26.
Career break
Osaka's maternity leave and protected ranking exhausted
Osaka took a maternity leave in 2023 for the birth of her daughter.
Since her return, she has participated in three Grand Slam tournaments this year using her protected ranking.
However, this means that she has now exhausted the limit for direct entry into a Grand Slam based on protected ranking, which is set at three.
This leaves her with two options for US Open participation: securing a wildcard or qualifying through preliminary rounds.
Tournament record
Osaka's US Open history and wildcard prospects
Osaka, a two-time US Open champion, has the credentials to potentially secure a wildcard.
However, her recent denial of a wildcard for the Cincinnati Masters could complicate her chances for the New York Major.
Interestingly, in 2018 she won her first Grand Slam at the US Open despite preceding losses in Canada and Cincinnati.
To repeat such success this year, Osaka must first ensure her participation in the tournament.
Words
I don't feel like I'm in my body, says Osaka
Former world number one Osaka said she does not "feel like I'm in my body" following her return to tennis after a maternity break.
She returned to the WTA Tour in January after the birth of her first child, daughter Shai, in July 2023.
"My biggest issue currently isn't losses though, my biggest issue is that I don't feel like I'm in my body," Osaka, 26, wrote on Instagram.