Naomi Osaka’s former coach, Sascha Bajin, recently opened up about their time together, admitting that he didn’t particularly like her tennis style. The admission came as part of a broader reflection on their collaboration, which saw Osaka rise to prominence in the tennis world, winning two Grand Slam titles under Bajin’s guidance. Despite the success, Bajin revealed that he was initially concerned about Osaka’s playing style, which he felt was not the most technically sound or traditional.
Bajin acknowledged that while Osaka had an incredibly powerful and aggressive game, her technique wasn’t always polished, which raised doubts about her ability to sustain a consistent high level of play in the long run. “I didn’t like her tennis at the time, but I knew that the potential was there,” Bajin explained. The key challenge was to refine her strengths while addressing her weaknesses. It became clear to Bajin that Osaka’s raw talent and mental toughness were more than enough to make up for technical flaws, which is why he remained committed to helping her.
One of Bajin’s biggest concerns during their partnership was Osaka’s mental approach to the game. Osaka, known for her introspective and sometimes shy personality, had to develop the emotional resilience needed to handle the pressures of being a top-tier professional. The coach mentioned that she needed to believe in her own abilities more fully and embrace the pressure of being a favorite to win major titles.
Their partnership ultimately ended in 2019 after a falling out, but the success they shared – with Osaka winning the Australian Open and U.S. Open titles – left an indelible mark on the tennis world. Despite the departure, Bajin’s insights into her playing style and mental growth are a testament to the intricate dynamics between player and coach, where even deep concerns can be navigated to achieve great success.
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