“Thanks, Wim, for being a great coach and an even greater person,” former No. 1 said.
By Alberto Amalfi | @Tennis_Now | Saturday, September 14, 2024
Photo credit: Naomi Osaka Instagram
A productive partnership has come to an end.
Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka announced she’s split from long-time coach Wim Fissette in a social media post.
More: Roger Federer Talks RF Collection, Inspiration and Best Match
“4 years, 2 Slams and a whole lot of memories,” Osaka posted on Instagram stories. “Thanks Wim for being a great coach and an even greater person. Wishing you all the best.”
Fissette initially coached Osaka from 2019 to July of 2022.
The pair reunited late last year as Osaka increased her training after giving birth to daughter, Shai, in July of 2023.
Though Osaka held match points and nearly toppled No. 1 Iga Swiatek at Roland Garros, she’s sometimes struggled to sustain consistency in her first full season back since becoming a mom.
In an Instagram post, Fissette praised Osaka as “a champion in many ways.”
“I first started coaching Naomi in 2019, and it was truly a pleasure,” Fissette said. “More so to be part of the comeback journey, seeing her grow as a person, athlete and now mother. A champion in many ways. We started from zero and developed week by week. 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. When you do the right things and keep hearing from peers you are in the right direction, it’s tough not quite getting it yet. As the coach, you keep trusting the process, knowing the lessons are getting you closer to the trophies.
“After the US Open, Naomi decided to move forward with a new path. I accepted it knowing we close this second run with more good memories and gratitude for building her way back.”