“She has so much charisma, energy and positivity”

Modified at 17:34 GMT on September 21, 2023

Renowned tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou is looking forward to the showdown between Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka on the WTA Tour next year.

Gauff has risen rapidly on the women’s tour over the past few years. She built on her good performance this year and won her first Grand Slam title at the recently concluded U.S. Open. As a result, her world ranking climbed to a career high.

Osaka, meanwhile, has been out of action for some time after taking maternity leave. In July this year, she and her boyfriend, rapper Corade, gave birth to a baby girl and named her Shai. She is now said to be aiming to return to the tour ahead of next year’s Australian Open.

Mouratoglou, who has coached players such as Serena Williams and Simona Halep over the years, posted a video praising Gauff on social media. He called her a star who would win more major championships in her career.

“I think she’s a star. To fully become a star, she needs to be a Grand Slam champion, and now she is. I think she can win more. And she’s absolutely exciting. She has so much charisma and Energy positivity. I think she has everything it takes to be a big star and bring people to the WTA,” he said.

The Frenchman is also delighted at the prospect of Osaka returning to action next year. He’s excited to see his rivalry with Coco Gauff take shape.

“I’m happy for Naomi Osaka to be back next year. I think she’s also very good in tennis and the competition between the two could be exciting,” he added.

“I’m glad you’re back on tour” – Coco Gauff looks forward to battle with Naomi Osaka

Although she has yet to return to competition, Osaka traveled to New York during the U.S. Open to attend an event about mental health. She was also spotted in the stands during Coco Gauff’s semi-final victory over Karolina Muchova.

In her post-match interview after the match, Coco Gauff thanked the four-time Grand Slam champion for watching her play. She also recalled a special moment when they shared the stage four years ago.

“I didn’t even notice her sitting here until now, but, I mean, thank you for coming. “I mean Naomi, I remember that moment when we were on the court, I don’t even remember three years It means a lot to me,” she said.

The American also said she is looking forward to Osaka’s return to the WTA Tour and hopes to meet the daughter of the former world number one in the future.

“I’m so happy you’re back on tour and hope I get to meet your daughter. Thank you so much for coming and say hi to your mom,” she added.