By Trisha Ghosal
Naomi Osaka’s comeback journey found its first golden chapter on Sunday as the former World No. 1 clinched the title at the WTA 125 event in Saint-Malo, France. It was her first trophy in four years and her first since becoming a mother in July 2023—a deeply symbolic step forward for a player rebuilding both her game and her mindset.
Osaka, who entered the clay-court tournament as a wildcard, defeated Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan 6-1, 7-5 in the final, showcasing a blend of power, poise and maturity. Though Saint-Malo may not be one of the premier WTA events, the victory signifies something far more valuable: momentum, confidence, and the slow but sure return of a champion.
Her road to the title was far from smooth. The Japanese star was tested by Frenchwomen Diane Parry and Leolia Jeanjean, dropping a set in each encounter. But where the Osaka of recent years may have faltered, this version dug in—finding solutions, steadying herself in key moments, and embracing the grind.
Reflecting on her win, Osaka posted on social media: “Kinda ironic to win my first trophy back on the surface that I thought was my worst. That is one of my favourite things about life, though: there is always room to grow and evolve.”
It’s a telling statement from an athlete who has faced enormous scrutiny, both on and off the court. Last season, Osaka couldn’t progress past the second round of any Grand Slam. Her struggles with form and fitness were evident, particularly in her lack of consistency and explosiveness.
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Kinda ironic to win my first trophy back on the surface that I thought was my worst. 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 also really fun and… pic.twitter.com/oR5OY5pTJN
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) May 4, 2025
But in 2024, signs of a turnaround are clear. She reached the third round of the Australian Open before an injury forced her out, and although she bowed out early at the Madrid Open, the grit she displayed in Saint-Malo signals steady upward movement.
Her title win will see her rise seven spots in the rankings to World No. 48—a reward for the work she’s quietly put in. Now headed to the Italian Open in Rome before the French Open later this month; Osaka has reason to believe again.
It may have been a 125-level event, but it was a 1000-level statement. Naomi Osaka is back, and she’s only just getting started.
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