Naomi Osaka is finally back to competition in San Jose after more than 2 months. The Japanese player will face Qinwen Zheng, but she will not have at her side coach Wim Fissette who has recently parted ways with her.
Therefore, Naomi’s dad, Leonard Francois, will take over as her coach in California. He used to train the Japanese sensation in the earlier part of her remarkable career.
Naomi Osaka seems to be completely committed to the tournament. Here is a video of her practicing her serve with her father when raining.
A little morning 🌧 won’t stop @naomiosaka’s practice session. #MubadalaSVC pic.twitter.com/dhq6ZFKkKi
— Mubadala Silicon Valley Classic (@MubadalaSVC) August 1, 2022
Naomi Osaka in 2022
Now the world no.41, Osaka played her last match on the 23rd of May when she lost to world no.22 Amanda Anisimova 7-5 6-4 in the 1st round of the French Open (draw).
This year Naomi has managed to achieve a 12-5 win-loss record. Naomi Osaka’s most significant result of the present season was reaching the final in Miami.
Qinwen Zheng in 2022
Currently the world no.51, the Chinese played her last match on the 2nd of July when she lost to world no.23 Elena Rybakina 7-6(4) 7-5 in the 3rd round in Wimbledon (draw).
This season Qinwen has managed to achieve a composed 27-12 win-loss record. The Chinese conquered 2 titles in 2022 Orlando and in the Valencia.
Naomi Osaka and Qinwen Zheng have never faced off.