Naomi Osaka, former world number one and four-time Grand Slam champion, has once again parted ways with her long-time coach, Wim Fissette. The announcement comes after a frustrating stretch of performances, culminating in an early exit from the US Open, which Osaka herself admitted left her feeling disheartened.
The Belgian coach, who began working with Osaka in 2019, played a pivotal role in two of her major career milestones. With Fissette by her side, Osaka claimed both the 2020 US Open and the 2021 Australian Open titles, adding to her impressive Grand Slam tally. However, after a second stint with him, the two have decided to go their separate ways.
“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 shared in a heartfelt Instagram story, reflecting on their time together.
For Fissette, the split comes with mixed emotions. The coach, who has guided other tennis stars like Kim Clijsters, Simona Halep, and Angelique Kerber, expressed his belief that they were on the verge of something significant in Osaka’s comeback season. “We were very close to a breakthrough,” Fissette wrote in his own Instagram post, emphasizing the progress they had made and the potential that was just within reach.
“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 a coach, you keep trusting the process, knowing the lessons are getting you closer to the trophies,” he added.
Osaka’s return to the sport at the start of this season after becoming a mother in 2023 came with high hopes, but the reality of competitive tennis after a 15-month break proved challenging. Since her comeback, she has reached the quarterfinals in only two of the 16 tournaments she entered, and her Grand Slam performances have been underwhelming, failing to advance past the second round.
Reflecting on her struggles, Osaka expressed her frustration after the US Open loss. “It’s been a little difficult because obviously I can only gauge how I’m doing by results,” she said. “I feel faster. I feel better, but I lost in the second round. So it’s a little rough. I feel like I’m working way harder than I’ve ever worked in my life, so it needs to turn into something.”
Despite the setbacks, both Osaka and Fissette remain optimistic about their futures. Fissette, who shared that his time with Osaka was one of his most rewarding experiences in his 15-year coaching career, praised the tennis star for her resilience and personal growth.
“We started from zero and developed week by week,” he wrote. “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.”
Though their journey together has come to an end, Fissette expressed his gratitude for their shared memories and growth, wishing Osaka the best as she embarks on a new path. “I’m now looking forward to a new chapter and excited for a next great partnership!” he concluded.
Osaka has reportedly selected Patrick Mouratoglou as her new coach. She has been spotted training at UCLA under the guidance of the renowned French coach.
As Osaka steps into this next phase of her career, her fans and supporters will be eagerly watching to see how she navigates the challenges ahead. The road to resurgence is never easy, but with her work ethic and determination, there is no doubt that Osaka’s story is far from over.
