Naomi Osaka is making waves at the start of the 2025 season, advancing to the quarterfinals of the ASB Classic in Auckland with renewed energy and focus. Under the guidance of new coach Patrick Mouratoglou, the four-time Grand Slam champion seems determined to overcome the struggles that marred her 2024 campaign and reclaim her spot among the tennis elite.
Turning the Page After a Challenging 2024
Osaka’s 2024 season was a mixed bag. Despite flashes of brilliance, the 27-year-old failed to advance beyond the quarterfinals in any tournament, leaving her yearning for greater success. This year, she’s already on the verge of breaking that barrier, with the Auckland event serving as a proving ground for her refreshed mindset and approach.
In her second-round match, Osaka defeated Austria’s Julia Grabher, 7-5, 6-3, after an earlier victory over Israel’s Lina Glushko. Reflecting on her journey, Osaka expressed pride in how far she has come since returning to the tour as a mother.
“A few months ago, I just wanted the chance to play again. Now I’m here, putting up good fights, and I’m really proud of myself for that,” she said.
The Mouratoglou Effect: Clarity and Confidence
Osaka’s decision to bring on Patrick Mouratoglou as her coach in late 2024 appears to be paying dividends. Known for his work with Serena Williams and other top players, Mouratoglou has already made a significant impact on Osaka’s game. During a rain delay in her second-round match, his advice proved pivotal.
“For me, it’s about trust. During the delay, Patrick had two clear points for me, and I was really grateful for that. It’s little things like that which make a big difference,” Osaka shared.
Work Ethic Over Talent
Despite being a former World No. 1 and a decorated Grand Slam champion, Osaka made a surprising statement in her post-match interview: “I’m not the most talented player.” However, this wasn’t an admission of weakness—it was a declaration of her determination.
“I’ve always felt like I work the hardest, and that gives me a lot of confidence. Tennis isn’t just about skill; it’s about who wants it more in the moment. Last year, I struggled with that mindset, but now I feel ready for the battles ahead.”
A Path to the Semifinals
Osaka’s road to the title looks promising. Her quarterfinal opponent will be either Hailey Baptiste or Jodie Burrage, both lower-ranked players. Even her potential semifinal matchup would pit her against a lower-ranked competitor, such as Katie Volynets, giving Osaka a clear opportunity to make a deep run.
With Mouratoglou by her side and a renewed sense of purpose, Osaka is aiming to surpass expectations and take significant strides toward her ultimate goal—breaking back into the WTA Top 10 in 2025.