By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Sunday, May 4, 2025
Naomi Osaka has taken a bold step down to a lower-tier tournament in Saint-Malo, France, and it has paid off with her first title victory since 2021!
Ranked 55th, Osaka emerged victorious against Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan, 6-1, 6-5, securing her title. She also claimed victories over Diane Parry, Elsa Jacquemot, and Leolia Jeanjean in this tournament.
🏆 FIRST title on clay for Osaka!
Naomi Osaka clinches the WTA 125 of Saint-Malo, defeating Kaja Juvan 6-2, 7-5! First trophy since 2021 for the four-time Grand Slam champion 🙌🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/nsw2y1FHo3
— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) May 4, 2025
The triumph at this 125K event signifies Osaka’s inaugural pro title on clay. Although she did not compete against any players ranked in the Top 100, this string of victories is sure to boost her confidence.
“It’s somewhat ironic to capture my first trophy on the surface I once considered my weakest,” Osaka shared on social media. “Life is full of opportunities for growth and evolution. Huge thanks to everyone supporting me on this journey; it might be rocky, but it’s immensely enjoyable and I am truly grateful.”
It’s a bit ironic to claim my first title on the surface I thought was my worst. One of life’s greatest lessons is that there’s always room to evolve. Thanks to everyone supporting me through this turbulent yet thrilling journey! pic.twitter.com/oR5OY5pTJN
— Naomi Osaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) May 4, 2025
Osaka is set to compete in the main draw at Rome, commencing this Tuesday.
NAOMI OSAKA WINS HER FIRST EVER TITLE ON CLAY! 🧡🏆 pic.twitter.com/FfKnsmhF5V
— Bastien Fachan (@BastienFachan) May 4, 2025
