Naomi Osaka’s Journey: From Self-Doubt to Resilience in Tennis Comeback

LOS ANGELES, California — Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1, is navigating a comeback season filled with both challenges and triumphs following the birth of her daughter, Shai. After reuniting with her former coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, last summer, Osaka is on a quest to regain her confidence and competitive edge on the court.

In September 2024, three-quarters into her season, Osaka candidly expressed her struggle with self-doubt despite notable improvements. Discussing her journey, she said, “Obviously the results aren’t resulting right now, but I think I’m growing every tournament.” However, after experiencing a series of close calls without winning, she parted ways with Mouratoglou, reflecting the anxiety many athletes face about their performance.

At 27, Osaka has experienced ups and downs since becoming a mother. In January, she had to retire from the Auckland Classic finals due to an abdominal injury, but she has also showcased her potential with a comeback at the Australian Open where she executed an impressive rally against Karolina Muchova.

“I just had to believe in myself a lot more,” Osaka commented after her second-round victory in Melbourne. “When I’m healthy, I’ve rediscovered my swagger and ability.” This renewed confidence comes as she and Mouratoglou have worked intensely on mental resilience and overcoming self-doubt.

In an interview earlier this year, Mouratoglou emphasized the importance of routine and consistent practice in building confidence. “You earn confidence with what you do every day in practice,” he stated. As they prepare for the BNP Paribas Open this week, Osaka continues to embrace this philosophy of incremental improvement.

Mouratoglou noted Osaka’s commitment to developing her skills. “She comes to the court every day with an open mind and a hunger to try anything to get better,” he said. The meticulous approach to training includes addressing not just physical aspects, but also the mental side of the game.

Reflecting on her recent performances, Mouratoglou discussed the subtleties of managing confidence during matches. “It’s natural to feel nervous,” he explained. “What’s important is controlling those feelings and not letting them affect your play.” This strategy of maintaining focus can be pivotal during competitive matches, especially under pressure.

Osaka’s journey is not solely a personal one; it resonates with the experienced athletes she closely observes, including legends like Serena Williams. Mouratoglou acknowledged that each player is distinct and that adaptability is key to coaching top-tier talent, which includes maintaining a sense of normalcy in their interactions.

In discussing Osaka’s evolution and approach towards improvement, he emphasized the importance of a growth mindset. “Champions like Naomi focus on the journey rather than past triumphs,” he stated. She is known for her eagerness to embrace new strategies and refine her game. “She told me she was excited to get to work because she wanted to learn new things,” Mouratoglou added.

Looking ahead, both Osaka and Mouratoglou are clear about the immediate goals for her game. Key strengths include her quickness and precision when hitting, but they also recognize the need for continuous development in areas like return strategies and aggression in serving.

“Her confidence is much higher than last year,” Mouratoglou noted. As Osaka prepares to take the court again at the BNP Paribas Open, her journey is one of resilience, hope, and the determination to not just reclaim her title, but to continue evolving as a player.