Naomi Osaka, the four-time Grand Slam champion, has faced a turbulent 2025 season marked by injuries and inconsistent results, prompting widespread speculation about her form and future in professional tennis. Her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, has stepped into the fray, forcefully countering narratives that question Osaka’s commitment or ability to reclaim her place among the sport’s elite. In a recent statement, the renowned French coach, who began working with Osaka in September 2024, offered a spirited defense of his player, emphasizing her relentless work ethic and the external challenges that have hindered her progress. As Osaka prepares for her next challenge at the Madrid Open, Mouratoglou’s words paint a picture of a determined athlete fighting to overcome adversity and silence her critics.
Osaka’s journey since returning to the WTA Tour in 2024 after the birth of her daughter, Shai, has been a rollercoaster. The 27-year-old Japanese star, once ranked world No. 1, has struggled to regain the form that saw her dominate at the 2019 and 2021 Australian Opens and the 2018 and 2020 US Opens. Her 2025 season began with promise at the ASB Classic in Auckland, where she reached the final, only to retire against Clara Tauson due to an abdominal injury after winning the first set. A similar setback struck at the Australian Open, where she impressed in early rounds but withdrew in the third round against Belinda Bencic, again citing an abdominal issue. Most recently, a first-round loss to Lucia Bronzetti at the Madrid Open sparked renewed scrutiny, with some questioning whether Osaka’s physical and mental resilience could withstand the demands of elite competition.
Mouratoglou, whose coaching resume includes a decade with Serena Williams that yielded 10 major titles, has no patience for such doubts. “Naomi’s been practicing at an incredibly high level, and her game is improving every day,” he asserted, pointing to her rigorous training sessions as evidence of her dedication. He acknowledged the primary obstacle holding her back: a lack of match play. “She’s had so few matches over the past few years—maternity leave, injuries—it’s tough to find rhythm without consistent competition,” he said. Osaka’s limited court time, including retirements at the China Open and Auckland, has left her short of the reps needed to sharpen her instincts and rebuild confidence. Yet Mouratoglou remains optimistic, insisting, “Once she gets more matches under her belt, everything will fall into place.”
The coach’s confidence stems from Osaka’s undeniable talent and mental fortitude. Despite her setbacks, she has shown flashes of brilliance, such as her fourth-round run at the 2024 China Open, her first tournament with Mouratoglou, and a commanding performance in Auckland before her injury. Osaka’s decision to compete in the WTA 125 event in Saint-Malo, where she reached the round of 16 with a win over Petra Marčinko, reflects her determination to grind through smaller tournaments to regain her edge. “I’m not turning back,” Osaka declared after her Madrid loss, a statement Mouratoglou echoed when praising her resolve. “Her motivation to come back and do great things again is inspiring,” he said, noting that her drive pushes him to match her intensity.
Osaka’s challenges are compounded by the weight of expectations. As a trailblazer—the first Asian player to hold the world No. 1 ranking and a vocal advocate for mental health—she carries a unique burden. Her 2021 withdrawal from the French Open, citing anxiety and depression, sparked global conversations about athlete well-being, but it also invited criticism from those who misunderstand her introverted nature. Mouratoglou, who initially surprised Osaka with his humor and approachability, has tailored his coaching to her personality. “She thought I was straight-laced, but I think we’ve found a good balance,” he said, recalling her comments at the Australian Open. Their partnership, though tested by injuries, has already produced moments of promise, and Mouratoglou is banking on Osaka’s hunger to propel her forward.
As Osaka gears up for her next match in Saint-Malo against Diane Parry, the tennis world watches closely. Mouratoglou’s rebuttal of negative narratives underscores a critical point: Osaka’s story is far from over. With two Australian Open titles and a 24-6 record in Melbourne, she knows what it takes to conquer the biggest stages. “She’s a remarkable athlete and mother, and her curiosity and dedication are unmatched,” Mouratoglou said, framing her as a player whose best chapters are yet to be written. For now, Osaka and her coach are focused on building momentum, one match at a time, as they aim to prove that her setbacks are merely a prelude to a triumphant return.
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