Inside Team Naomi: How Japan's tennis superstar climbed to top

Tight-knit professionals keep Osaka's tennis, business machine rolling

20220405 osaska miami open 02

Naomi Osaka hits a forehand in the women's singles final in the Miami Open at Hard Rock Stadium. © Reuters

MASAKO HARA, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- At almost every match tennis star Naomi Osaka plays in a familiar group of people is seen sitting in her family seats. The members of the group have remained unchanged for nearly two years: Osaka's agent, coach, strength and conditioning coach, and trainer.

Although tennis is an individual sport, these people comprise "Team Naomi," a group of experts dedicated to keeping Japan's best-known tennis player rolling and her lucrative business on an upward trajectory.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.