Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka has announced her separation from coach Wim Fissette for the second time. The split comes after Osaka's disappointing second-round exit at the US Open. Osaka expressed her disappointment after the loss, stating that she takes defeats personally and feels like her "heart dies" every time.
Naomi Osaka, the former world No. 1 tennis player, has once again parted ways with her coach, Wim Fissette. The split comes after a disappointing second-round exit at the US Open for Osaka, who lost 6-3, 7-6 (5) to Karolina Muchova.
Naomi Osaka and Coach Wim Fissette Part Ways Again After Disappointing US Open Exit
After the loss, Osaka expressed her disappointment, saying, "It's a little rough, because I do take these losses really personally. It's like a dramatic word, but I feel like my heart dies every time I lose."
This is not the first time Osaka and Fissette have parted ways. Fissette began working with Osaka shortly before the start of the 2020 season, but they split in the summer of 2022. They teamed up again last year when Osaka returned to training following maternity leave.
Naomi Osaka and Coach Wim Fissette Part Ways Again After Disappointing US Open Exit
During their time together, Osaka won two of her four Grand Slam titles. She expressed her gratitude for Fissette's coaching on her Instagram story on Friday, saying, "4 years, 2 Slams and a whole lot of memories. Thanks Wim for being a great coach and an even greater person, wishing you all the best."
Fissette also reflected on his time with Osaka in an Instagram post of his own, saying, "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. We were very close to a breakthrough."
Naomi Osaka and Coach Wim Fissette Part Ways Again After Disappointing US Open Exit
He added that after the US Open, Osaka "decided to move forward with a new path," and that he accepted it "knowing we close this second run with more good memories and gratitude for building her way back."
Osaka's exit from the US Open was just the latest in a string of disappointing results for the former world No. 1. She has not won a tournament since the 2021 Australian Open, and her ranking has dropped to No. 48 in the world.
It remains to be seen whether Osaka can regain her former dominance on the court. She will undoubtedly be looking for a new coach who can help her reach her full potential.
