Naomi Osaka: ‘I have a better rhythm’ after Nick Kyrgios masterclass

Naomi Osaka is constantly working on her form as she looks to bounce back from a tough period in 2021.

The former world number one recently returned to the court after taking a three-month hiatus in order to focus on her mental wellbeing.

Currently competing in the Miami Open, Osaka is eager to reach the top of her game again and return to winning ways.

The four-time Grand Slam winner has struggled with form in recent months after her withdrawal from the French Open seemingly affected her confidence.

As she gets back into her training, Osaka has admitted she has been observing Nick Kyrgios and his explosive serves so she can work on her own technique.

“I have been working on my serve a lot with [coach] Wim [Fissette], because apparently before I didn’t put my two feet together, so he’s been telling me to be very balanced and put my two feet together,” she explained.

“And I hit with Nick in LA, and I was watching his form from very close up, and he does this slide thing and then he puts his two feet together and [that] helps him explode more. I have been really focussing on that part of my technique. 

“I think it’s working out pretty well, because I think I have a better rhythm now than I did before, especially like with the wind and stuff.”

Kyrgios uploaded a video to Instagram showcasing this exact technique during a recent training session in Los Angeles, and a keen Osaka can be seen watching closely from the sidelines.

“Quick LA session with @naomiosaka. Analysing my serve to find any small detail,” he captioned the post. “Her hunger to learn was pretty epic to see from a champ like her.”

Kyrgios recently won the Australian Open doubles title alongside compatriot Thanasi Kokkinakis — the first Grand Slam title of