Naomi Osaka Claims First Title Since Motherhood at L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo

Four-time Grand Slam Naomi Osaka has recently returned to competitive tennis after taking time off. She recently won her first title after becoming a mother! Osaka’s route to the finals Osaka defeated Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan, four games to love, in the final of L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo. She won her final in a resounding 6-1, 7-5 in this French WTA 125 event. This latest win represents a major breakthrough for Osaka, not only her first title of 2019, but her very first title on clay courts.

The win arrives only months after Osaka gave birth to her daughter in July 2023. Since then, she has been finding her footing as a mom and returning to the rigors of professional tennis. In those months, Osaka took an indefinite leave to protect her mental health. Either way, after ACL surgery in 2023, she returned to competitive play in early 2024.

Osaka’s win in Saint-Malo will return her to the world’s top 50 rankings. It would be her first time in that elite echelon since her return to the sport. The 27-year-old athlete will go into next week’s WTA 1000 Italian Open, which kicks off Wednesday.

Reflecting on her unexpected success on clay, Osaka remarked, “Kinda ironic to win my first trophy back on the surface that I thought was my worst.” Her success on this unique surface showcases her ability to adapt and overcome adversities, something that defines her spirit.

Beyond her own successes, Osaka said she was grateful for the support she’s had on her journey. She stated, “That’s one of my favorite things about life though, there’s always room to grow and evolve. Thanks to everyone accompanying me on this journey, I know it’s turbulent but it’s really fun and I’m grateful.”

Osaka’s win at L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo not only signifies a personal victory but reinforces her status as a formidable competitor in women’s tennis. As she prepares for her first rounds in Italy, you can bet that tennis fans will be tuned in and focused on her budding story. Her fellow female athletes can’t wait to watch how her career progresses post-motherhood.