In the recently released biography, “Naomi Osaka: Her Journey to Finding Her Power and Her Voice,” the intricate details of Naomi Osaka’s split with coach Sascha Bajin have come to light. Despite a successful partnership that saw Osaka rise from World No. 72 to the pinnacle of the WTA rankings, the relationship took an unexpected turn.
Osaka and Bajin’s collaboration garnered accolades, with Bajin earning the title of WTA Coach of the Year for his instrumental role in Osaka’s triumphs at Indian Wells and the US Open in 2018. The following season saw Osaka clinch the Australian Open title, showcasing their continued success.
However, just 17 days after her Melbourne victory, Osaka announced the end of her coaching relationship with Bajin on social media. The biography, authored by journalist Ben Rothenberg, delves into the underlying cause of their separation – Bajin’s undisclosed romantic involvement with another player, who happened to be a former hitting partner of Serena Williams.
Rothenberg reveals that Naomi Osaka confronted Bajin, breaking their weeks-long silence, to address the rumors about his off-court relationship with a fellow player. Despite Bajin’s initial denials, he eventually admitted the truth the following day. Osaka, feeling her trust had been shattered, expressed her disappointment, marking the conclusion of their successful coaching alliance.