Former world number one Naomi Osaka is set to make her return to the women’s tennis circuit after a 15-month hiatus, and top tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou believes her comeback will significantly elevate the sport.

Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, last competed in a WTA tournament at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo in late September 2022 before taking a break and welcoming her daughter, Shai, into the world in July this year. Her return to action is scheduled at the Brisbane International, a warm-up event leading up to the Australian Open, slated to commence at Melbourne Park from January 14th to 28th. Witness the best tennis game ever only on Nextbet Sports. 

Expressing his enthusiasm for Osaka’s return, Mouratoglou, renowned for coaching Serena Williams, emphasized the positive impact her presence will have on women’s tennis. “I think it’s the best news for women’s tennis,” Mouratoglou shared with Eurosport. “Now you have Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka, not that there are no others because of course there are many others, but I think those two are super exciting.”

Highlighting the significance of having superstar players in the WTA, Mouratoglou stressed, “They are superstars, so they’re great for the WTA. The WTA needs superstars. We had so many great years with Serena, Venus (Williams), and Maria Sharapova, who are three really huge stars. And I think it draws a lot of attention to women’s tennis when you have players like that. So I’m very excited that Naomi comes back. I think she’s great.”

Assessing Osaka’s potential upon her return, Mouratoglou lauded her formidable game style, citing her powerful shots and aggressive approach as assets that could quickly shake off any rust accumulated during her time away. “She has such a huge game, huge shots. I think having the mindset, the will and the shots, she can really do some damage,” he remarked optimistically.

The coach also acknowledged the anticipation surrounding Osaka’s competitive readiness, stating, “So we’ll know quite fast if she’s able to be competitive immediately or if she will need a bit more time to become competitive. But I feel she will be competitive straight away.”

As the tennis world eagerly awaits Naomi Osaka’s return, expectations are high for the impact she’ll make and the dynamic energy she’ll bring back to the women’s tour. Get the latest updates from the world of tennis only on Nextbet Sports.