Naomi Osaka has not played since pulling out of the Australian Open, but that has not stopped her from joining in on some of tennis’ more divisive debates.

This time, she is weighing in on the topic of grunting, something fans and players still cannot seem to agree on. Some see it as a natural part of the sport, while others find it distracting.

Osaka did not hold back when sharing her perspective.

Naomi Osaka backs grunting in tennis with firm response

Osaka did not wait for someone to bring it up. She jumped into the conversation herself, posting a three-sentence response on Threads aimed at those who take issue with grunting in tennis.

“I laugh when people that don’t know anything about tennis start a podcast about tennis. What do you mean grunting is unsportsmanlike and it gives you the ick?” she wrote.

The 28-year-old Japanese then added: “Watch a different sport lol.”

This post could hint at how much she wants to return to competition, especially since her injury forced her to skip both the Australian Open and the event in Dubai.

Why Aryna Sabalenka was penalised for grunting at the Australian Open

This issue is in the spotlight again, especially after Aryna Sabalenka received a penalty for grunting during the Australian Open.

The world number one was taking on Elina Svitolina in a semi-final match that could have taken her to another Grand Slam final.

During that match, she mis-hit a forehand, and her grunt extended a bit longer than usual, expressing some frustration.

The ball’s spin kept it in play despite looking like it would go long. However, Svitolina did not need to return it because the umpire had already called Sabalenka for hindrance due to her prolonged grunt.

After the match, Sabalenka made her feelings clear: “She called it, and I was, like, What? What is wrong with you?”

“I mean, I think it was the wrong call, but whatever.”

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