Naomi Osaka and Sloane Stephens have often found each other on the opposite ends of the tennis court. Their first meeting was in the 2016 Acapulco quarterfinal where the American star defeated Osaka in straight sets. Subsequently, in 2018, they squared off in the WTA Finals, with Stephens maintaining her dominance over Osaka. Their latest meeting was in the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells earlier this season. In the first-round contest, Osaka made a strong comeback after losing the first set to notch up her maiden victory over Stephens.
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Although strong rivals on the court, the two share a great bond off the court. Recently, Stephens received a wonderful surprise from Osaka.
Sloane Stephens thanks Naomi Osaka
Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, took to Instagram to share Levi’s latest collection that she received from Osaka. Sharing a picture of the apparel, Stephens wrote, “Thank You.” Subsequently, the Japanese star re-shared the story on her official Instagram handle.
USA Today via Reuters
Sep 1, 2021; Flushing, NY, USA; Sloane Stephens of the USA celebrates after defeating Cori Gauff of the USA on day three of the 2021 U.S. Open tennis tournament at USTA Billie King National Tennis Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-USA TODAY Sports
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While Osaka skipped the Wimbledon Championships owing to an Achilles injury, Stephens lost in the opening round of the grass-court Grand Slam tournament. The two will be eager to put on a good show in the upcoming US Open swing.
Naomi Osaka splits with coach Wim Fissette
Ahead of the hard-court season, the four-time Grand Slam champion made some changes to her coaching staff. She ended her long-time coaching partnership with Wim Fissette. Taking to social media, the latter wrote, “It has been a privilege to coach Naomi since 2019 and see her grow into the Champion she has become. She has inspired a whole new generation to fall in love with the game & to speak up for what they believe in and it’s been incredible to play a part in that journey.”
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Meanwhile, Osaka will begin her preparations for the US Open by participating in the Silicon Valley Classic in San Jose. She has received a wildcard entry to participate in the tournament. Apart from Osaka, Elena Rybakina, Ons Jabeur, and Coco Gauff will also be vying for the title.
