Issue Contents: | ![](/icons/ecblank.gif) | *********About the cover model: Naomi Osaka************
Naomi Osaka is a professional tennis player who has made significant impacts both on and off the court. Born on October 16, 1997, in Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan, to a Haitian father and a Japanese mother, Osaka has represented Japan in her professional career. Here's a brief overview of her biography:
### Early Life
- **Birthplace:** Chūō-ku, Osaka, Japan
- **Parents:** Her father, Leonard François, is from Haiti, and her mother, Tamaki Osaka, is from Japan.
- **Early Training:** Inspired by the Williams sisters, her father started training Naomi and her sister, Mari, in tennis from a young age, following Richard Williams' blueprint.
### Professional Career
Osaka turned professional in 2013 and has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the most formidable players in women's tennis.
- **Grand Slam Titles:** She has won multiple Grand Slam singles titles, including the US Open (2018, 2020) and the Australian Open (2019, 2021), making her the first Asian player to hold the top ranking in singles.
- **Historic Achievements:** Her victory at the 2018 US Open was particularly notable as she defeated Serena Williams in the final, becoming the first Japanese player to win a Grand Slam singles title.
- **World Ranking:** Osaka reached the World No. 1 ranking in the Women's Tennis Association (WTA) for the first time on January 28, 2019.
### Off-Court Activities
Osaka is known for her activism and willingness to speak out on social and political issues. She has been an advocate for mental health awareness, racial equality, and social justice. For instance, during the 2020 US Open, she wore masks bearing the names of African Americans who had died as a result of police brutality or racial injustice, bringing attention to these issues.
### Personal Life
- **Dual Heritage:** Osaka has a unique cultural background, with her family moving to the United States when she was three years old. She holds dual Japanese and American citizenship but chose to represent Japan in her tennis career.
- **Languages:** She speaks English and some Japanese. Her multicultural background and global appeal have made her one of the most marketable athletes in the world.
### Impact and Legacy
Naomi Osaka's impact transcends sports. She has become a symbol of resilience, diversity, and the importance of mental health awareness. Osaka has been included in Time's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world and has received numerous accolades for her sportsmanship, activism, and contributions to society.
Osaka's career is still ongoing, and she continues to be a prominent figure in tennis and a role model for young athletes worldwide. Her achievements, both on and off the court, have left an indelible mark on the world of sports and beyond.
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