Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, won her first WTA title since the 2021 Australian Open at the L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo, a WTA 125 tournament, marking her first victory on clay. This victory came after Osaka's return to tennis post-maternity leave, as she became a mother in July 2023. Expressing surprise, Osaka noted the irony of winning on what she considered her weakest surface, highlighting her continuous growth and evolution in the sport. Her victory propels her to No. 48 in the WTA rankings, a significant rise for the former world No. 1. Despite past struggles on clay, including a withdrawal from the French Open in 2021 for mental health reasons, Osaka shows resilience and adaptability ahead of the upcoming French Open starting May 25.

Naomi Osaka secured her first WTA title since 2021 by winning the L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo, which also marks her first title on clay, a surface she previously considered challenging.

Osaka returned to competitive tennis after giving birth in July 2023, making her victory at the tournament a notable achievement following her maternity leave.

She expressed a sense of irony and gratitude on social media about claiming her first post-maternity title on her least favorite surface, emphasizing her personal growth and adaptability.

With this win, Osaka will rise to No. 48 in the WTA rankings, reflecting a significant comeback for the former No. 1 player.

Her career includes two Australian Open and two U.S. Open victories, all on hard courts, but she has historically struggled on clay, once withdrawing from the French Open for mental health reasons.

The victory at Saint-Malo comes after an earlier defeat in the first round of the Madrid Open, indicating her readiness to tackle the clay-court season despite initial setbacks.

As the French Open approaches, starting May 25, Osaka's recent performance suggests potential for overcoming previous challenges on clay, highlighting her resilience and ongoing evolution as a tennis player.