Osaka opens U.S. Open with renewed focus and new coach

Naomi Osaka arrives at the 2025 U.S. Open in New York with renewed belief and a clearer sense of purpose, following a summer that underlined both her continued capacity for deep runs and the emotional complexity of returning to top-level tennis as a mother. Entering as the 23rd seed, she will open against Belgium’s Greet Minnen in the first round, fresh from a Canadian Open final that showcased how far her game has come and how much she still has to prove. A new coaching arrangement, public reflection on a recent controversy, and a more relaxed relationship with the sport frame a moment of cautious optimism for Osaka as she chases a return to Grand Slam contention.

Osaka’s season has been a study in contrasts. She rose to world No. 1 in 2019 and has since captured four major titles, including two U.S. Opens, before stepping back for motherhood in 2023. Her return this year has produced glimpses of the old Mercedes-like pace and power, culminating in a Canadian Open run that ended with a loss to 18-year-old Victoria Mboko. In the immediate aftermath, Osaka faced criticism for not congratulating Mboko in the runner-up speech. She later said she spoke with Mboko to clear the air,...