Greece vs. Japan: Osaka, Tsitsipas Seek Comeback Beginnings in Perth
Naomi Osaka vs. Maria Sakkari: A Tale of Two Comebacks
Once hailed as the future of the WTA, Naomi Osaka and Maria Sakkari now find themselves in similar positions, seeking to revive their careers. Osaka, 28, reached the US Open semifinals in 2025, while Sakkari, 30, has had deep runs at several Slams. Both hope to rekindle their best form in Perth.
I’ve worked hard with Tomasz [Wiktorowski] and I’m excited to start the new season…
Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, begins her 2026 campaign against Sakkari, herself no stranger to success, having reached the singles quarters in Melbourne in 2023.
Stefanos Tsitsipas vs. Shintaro Mochizuki: A Greek’s Homecoming
Injury-plagued in 2025, Stefanos Tsitsipas, 27, begins his 2026 season in Perth, where he’ll face Japanese hopeful Shintaro Mochizuki. The Greek, a four-time Australian Open semifinalist, seeks to claw back up the rankings.
I couldn’t ask for anything better than starting my season in Greece…
What to Watch
- Can Osaka and Tsitsipas stir memories of their past successes?
- Will Sakkari and Mochizuki cause upsets and announce their intention to join the sport’s elite?
Did You Know?
Osaka and Tsitsipas are two of only six players to have won multiple Australian Open titles in the 21st century.
Both Osaka and Tsitsipas have made considerable comebacks before, with Osaka winning her first title post-injury after just three tournaments back, and Tsitsipas making the semifinals at the Rome Masters in 2021 following a month-long absence.
Pro Tips
Osaka’s return game is her top weapon. Expect her to dictate rallies early.
Tsitsipas’ backhand has been a weakness recently. Watch how he responds to Mochizuki’s varied attack.
FAQs
- How many Australian Open titles have Osaka and Tsitsipas won?
- Osaka: 2; Tsitsipas: 0 (he was runner-up in 2021)
- What are their current rankings?
- Osaka: 16; Tsitsipas: 36