Newly crowned US Open champion Naomi Osaka believes her rapid rise in the world of tennis has been partly caused by the change in her eating habits.
The 20-year-old defeated Serena Williams in straight sets to become the first ever Japanese player to win a grand slam title. As a result of her triumph, Osaka is now at a ranking best of seventh in the world. The highest position a Japanese woman has held on the tour since Kimiko Date back in 1996.
Osaka’s US Open success wasn’t just a one-off. Earlier this year she also triumphed at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. So far this season, she has won 34 out of 50 matches played and has reached the third round or better at every grand slam tournament. Reflecting on her breakout season, Osaka believes a change in her eating habits has helped get her to where she currently is.
“I started the year — well, last year — during the off-season, I was on a really strict diet, and when I went to Australia I felt really fit, so that all carried on to here. I feel like I’m moving better than ever.” Osaka told Teen Vogue earlier this week.
During the off-season, Osaka’s diet consisted of no carbohydrates. One of the three macronutrients that is found in food. They include sugars, starches and fibers found in fruits, grains, vegetables and milk products
“It’s going to sound kind of extreme, but during the off-season, I was eating boiled foods. I would boil chicken and broccoli, and no carbs.” She explained.
As for a special treat, the world No.7 does have a soft spot for ice cream. Although that is only for green tea ice cream, which she eats when she isn’t training. The flavour is also known as matcha ice and it is popular in Osaka’s country of birth.
Osaka also has a routine she follows, leading up to matches. Following in their footsteps of other players and their rituals. Such as Rafael Nadal and his specifically placed bottles on the court.
“I’ve been eating the same breakfast for two weeks now, which is a salmon bagel. I ate that before my match. I always have to put my right shoe on first, and all my racquets have to be on a certain side of my bag.” The Japanese No.1 revelled.
Next up for Osaka will be the Pan Pacific Open where she will be the fourth seed. She will be bidding to become only the second home player to win the title and the first since 1995. The tournament will get underway on Monday.
