Naomi Osaka has reportedly started working with Patrick Mouratoglou after revealing she had split with long-time coach Wim Fissette.
The four-time Grand Slam champion announced she had ended her second collaboration with Fissette in a message shared on her Instagram story.
“Four years, two Slams and a whole lot of memories. Thanks Wim for being a great coach and an even greater person. Wishing you all the best,” Osaka wrote.
Osaka began working with Fissette for the first time at the start of the 2020 season and won her third and fourth major titles with the Belgian coach in her corner.
The Japanese star joined forces with Fissette again when she returned to the tour in January following the birth of her daughter Shai in July last year.
Shortly after Osaka’s announcement, Open Court reported that the former world No 1 had already replaced Fissette with another leading coach — Patrick Mouratoglou.
The 26-year-old has since been seen on court with Mouratoglou during a practice session at The University of California, Los Angeles in a photo shared by a fan on X.
Mouratoglou has previously coached a host of high-profile players on both the WTA and ATP Tours, including Serena Williams, Simona Halep, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Holger Rune.
In an Instagram post, Fissette reflected on his split with Osaka and expressed that he felt the pair were “very close to a breakthrough.”
“I first started coaching Naomi in 2019, and it was truly a pleasure. More so to be part of the comeback journey, seeing her grow as a person, athlete and now mother. A champion in many ways,” wrote the Belgian.
“We started from zero and developed week by week. In 15 years on tour, this was one of my best years working together with amazing people. From every defeat, we worked harder and better and grew a lot.
“We were very close to a breakthrough. When you do the right things and keep hearing from peers you are in the right direction, it’s tough not quite getting it yet. As the coach, you keep trusting the process, knowing the lessons are getting you closer to the trophies.
“After the US Open, Naomi decided to move forward with a new path. I accepted it knowing we close this second run with more good memories and gratitude for building her way back. Always wishing the very best for each other and families.
“I’m now looking forward to a new chapter and excited for a next great partnership!”
Osaka has lost seven of her last 11 matches and failed to earn back-to-back wins at her last six tournaments during a frustrating run.
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