Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka is tempering expectations as she navigates her return to professional tennis, emphasizing the importance of patience and realism. Despite glimpses of her dominant past, Osaka acknowledges that regaining top form is a gradual journey. “I just want to play with the big dogs so bad,” Osaka stated, “but I have to remember it’s a process.”
Navigating the Comeback Trail
Osaka’s comeback has been marked by both promise and challenges. After a period away from the sport, including maternity leave, she has faced injuries and fluctuating results as she seeks to recapture her previous heights.
Miami Open: A Sign of Resilience
Most recently, Osaka demonstrated her resilience at the Miami Open, battling back to defeat Yuliia Starodubtseva in the first round. After dropping the first set, Osaka rallied to win 3-6, 6-4, 6-3. This victory was her first since the Australian Open in January, marking a significant step forward in her comeback journey. “I knew that I wasn’t playing too well, but I thought, let me try to stay on the court as long as possible because I consider Miami my home,” Osaka said.
Australian Open: Promising Start, Abrupt End
Earlier in the year, Osaka showed flashes of brilliance at the Australian Open, defeating Caroline Garcia and KarolĂna Muchova before an abdominal strain forced her to withdraw from her third-round match against Belinda Bencic. Despite the setback, her performance in Melbourne offered encouragement for the season ahead.
Auckland WTA Tournament: A Glimpse of Potential
Osaka began 2025 on a positive note, reaching the finals of the Auckland WTA tournament. This was her first significant tournament since returning to tennis after maternity leave, signaling her intent to compete at the highest level once again. However, an abdominal injury in the final against Clara Tauson forced her to retire after securing the first set, highlighting the challenges she continues to face.
“It’s a Process”: Osaka’s Realistic Outlook
Osaka’s journey back to the top of the sport is viewed with a pragmatic lens. She understands that regaining her former dominance requires time, consistent effort, and self-compassion.
Learning from Setbacks
Osaka has openly discussed the importance of learning from her losses. Following a disappointing performance at Indian Wells, she emphasized the need to stay positive and focus on the process. “I was just over-hitting a lot, so I tried to use my legs,” Osaka shared. “I was going to run into every corner if I had to, and we were going to have to play for three hours if she was going to beat me.”
Drawing Strength from Motherhood
Osaka has spoken about the personal growth and perspective she has gained from motherhood. Her daughter, Shai, has taught her to accept the things she cannot control and to give her best in every situation. “It really does feel like a dream to think of my own child in the stands watching me,” Osaka said.
Embracing the Mental Game
Osaka’s career has been marked by her openness about mental health. She understands that maintaining mental clarity and focus is essential for success on and off the court. “Be patient with yourself, for progress takes time and consistent effort,” Osaka stated.
Expert Insights: Patrick Mouratoglou
Since teaming up with Naomi Osaka in the fall of 2024, coach Patrick Mouratoglou has been a calming and supportive presence, especially considering the injuries Osaka has faced. Mouratoglou’s experience coaching Serena Williams and other top players provides valuable insights and guidance as Osaka navigates her comeback.
Mouratoglou’s coaching philosophy focuses on nurturing a champion’s mentality, fostering self-belief, and interpreting losses as learning opportunities.
Mouratoglou’s Belief in Osaka’s Potential
“She wants to win, she wants to feel that she’s great at what she’s doing, and I think it’s a good thing because if you accept to be Top 20, there is no chance you’re going to win a Grand Slam. You have to refuse to be at a certain level because you deserve better, or you think you’re able to do better.”
Osaka’s Current Status
As of March 20, 2025, Naomi Osaka is ranked No. 61 in the world. While this is a far cry from her former No. 1 ranking, it reflects her ongoing journey back to the top of the sport.
Upcoming Match
Osaka is scheduled to play Liudmila Samsonova in the second round of the Miami Open on March 21, 2025. This match will be another opportunity for Osaka to test her progress against a top player and continue building momentum.
Career Achievements
Despite the challenges of her comeback, Osaka’s career achievements speak for themselves:
- Four-time Grand Slam champion: Australian Open (2019, 2021) and US Open (2018, 2020)
- Former world No. 1
- Seven WTA Tour-level singles titles
- Over $21.5 million in prize money
The Road Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
Osaka has made it clear that she wants to play “way more tournaments than I used to play.” Her current plans include competing in Dubai, Indian Wells, Miami, Charleston, and a full clay season. While she acknowledges the challenges ahead, Osaka remains optimistic about her future and committed to the process of regaining her top form. “You just gotta keep going and fighting for everything, and one day you’ll get to where you want,” Osaka said.
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