Credited from: REUTERS
Naomi Osaka captured her first WTA title since giving birth in July 2023, triumphing against Slovenia's Kaja Juvan with scores of 6-1, 7-5 at the L'Open 35 de Saint-Malo. This tournament, classified as a WTA 125 event, represents Osaka's comeback post-maternity leave and is particularly significant as it is her first title on clay, a surface she has historically found challenging, according to Channel News Asia, Reuters, and India Times.
Osaka's previous title win was at the 2021 Australian Open, illustrating a long gap in her competitive success. She has faced difficulties returning to form, having struggled with match fitness and injuries in recent months. Before this title, her performance had been disappointing, including a third-round exit at the Australian Open earlier this year and early departures from other events, according to Channel News Asia and India Times.
After her win, Osaka expressed gratitude and reflected on her journey, noting the irony of her triumph on a surface she considered her worst. Her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, emphasized the importance of match practice, stating she needed to play more to build her fitness. Following this victory, Osaka is projected to rise in the WTA rankings and is slated to compete in the upcoming French Open, which adds to the significance of this win as a confidence booster, according to Reuters and India Times.