Even if Naomi Osaka's return to tennis means more competition for Serena Williams ... the G.O.A.T. tells TMZ Sports she's still stoked for the 24-year-old's comeback!!!
"Oh my goodness," the tennis legend said out in Beverly Hills. "It's gonna be amazing. I can't wait."
Osaka has been away from the game for months -- dealing with mental health issues -- but she just recently returned to the practice court and was all smiles while out there.
Osaka made it appear like a return to competition was close .