Here’s an updated snapshot of Naomi Osaka—from her 2025 tennis comeback to her role as a new mom and cultural icon.
Naomi Osaka: Resurgent Champion and Engaged New Mom
Competitive Comeback in 2025
- Season Kickoff in Auckland: Osaka returned at the ASB Classic—reaching her first final since 2022 but retiring midway due to an abdominal injury.
- Australian Open: Made it to the third round (her deepest Grand Slam run since 2022) before withdrawing due to injury.
- Saint-Malo (WTA 125): Claimed her first title since 2021 and her first-ever win on clay by defeating Kaja Juvan.
- Canadian Open (WTA 1000): Reached the final but fell to Victoria Mboko.
Progress and Mindset
- Osaka has been steadily moving back up the rankings, breaking into the top 50 and gaining momentum with strong runs in Miami, Rome, and beyon
- She’s partnered with coach Tomasz Wiktorowski since July 2025, calling him a “tennis encyclopedia” who’s helped rebuild her confidence.
- As she approaches the 2025 U.S. Open, Osaka is shifting away from superstition, focusing instead on mental flexibility and simpler rituals.
Emotional Rematch: Osaka vs. Gauff at the 2025 U.S. Open
- Osaka advanced to the 4th round with a tough win over Daria Kasatkina. She’s set to face Coco Gauff—a matchup rich with history, echoing their 2019 showdown that captured hearts worldwide.
- Venus Williams and fans across the globe are watching closely, anticipating a story-laden battle.
Life Off-Court: Motherhood
- In July 2023, Osaka welcomed her daughter Shai, calling her motherhood stint a “love letter for moms.”
- Her daughter even made a charming appearance in a tennis-themed onesie, and may attend Naomi’s U.S. Open match from the stands.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Tour | Final in Auckland; 3rd round at Australian Open; WTA 125 title in Saint-Malo; WTA 1000 final in Montreal |
| Mindset Shift | Emphasizing confidence, mental flexibility, and breaking from superstition |
| Coaching | Now working with Tomasz Wiktorowski, who has been pivotal in her mental and competitive rebuild |
| 2025 U.S. Open Run | Reached 4th round; next up is a much-anticipated rematch with Coco Gauff |
| Motherhood | Embracing new role, integrating family with career, and representing as a role model for parent-athletes |
