Naomi Osaka professes solidarity with Turkey after earthquake wreaks havoc
Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka has expressed her solidarity with the people of Turkey who have been affected by the catastrophic earthquake that struck the country on Monday, February 6. Osaka has sent her heartfelt wishes to those affected, hoping they find strength and courage in the face of such adversity.
A devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Turkey, claiming the lives of more than 3,400 people and leaving thousands of buildings in ruins. Approximately 12 hours after the earthquake struck near the city of Gaziantep, Turkey, a second powerful tremor hit further north.
Countries around the world have responded to the crisis by sending specialist teams, sniffer dogs, and equipment to aid in the rescue efforts. Seismologists have reported that this was one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded in Turkey, and survivors have stated that it took two minutes for the shaking to stop.
The second quake, triggered by the first, had a magnitude of 7.5 and its epicentre was in the Elbistan district of Kahramanmaras province. Even now, many aftershocks are still being felt across the region. In the wake of the disaster, rescuers have been tirelessly combing through mountains of rubble in freezing and snowy conditions in search of survivors.
After seeing the destruction the earthquake caused, Naomi Osaka took to social media and wrote:
Naomi Osaka expecting her first child, will return to tour in 2024
Naomi Osaka has announced that she is expecting her first child and is planning to make her return to the court at next year's Australian Open. The 25-year-old withdrew from the first Grand Slam of the year without providing an official explanation.
Later on, she posted a picture of an ultrasound scan on social media announcing her pregnancy. The exciting news has been met with enthusiasm from fans around the world, who are eager to see the four-time Grand Slam champion back in action.
Can’t wait to get back on the court but here’s a little life update for 2023. https://t.co/GYXRnutU3I
Osaka is looking forward to her new role as a mother and is determined to make a triumphant return to the court.
"I realize that life is so short and I don't take any moment for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure. I know that I have so much to look forward to in the future, one thing I'm looking forward to is for my kid to watch my matches and tell someone, 'that's my mom'. 2023 will be a year that's full of lessons for me and I hope to see you guys at the start of the next one because I'll be at Aus 2024. Love you all infinitely," she wrote.
Several former players, including Billie Jean King, Kim Clijsters, and Rennae Stubbs, sent heartfelt messages of congratulations and support to Naomi Osaka in response to her momentous news.
The 25-year-old is determined to make a lasting impact on the sport and is excited to share her journey with her fans.