Osaka should take inspiration from Serena Williams in quest to get form back according to Shriver: “The best way to do that is just to play matches”

It is fair to say that Naomi Osaka hasn't been at her best this year. With the Japanese internationals only standout performance being in the Miami Open where she came runner-up.

On a recent 'Inside-in' podcast former doubles World No.1 Pam Shriver was asked her opinion on Osaka carrying on playing after the US open, where she ended her season in 2021.

"Listen, it was a tough draw to play (Danielle) Collins first round. Naomi didn't play badly and I was texting Stuart, her business partner like, 'you gotta play more!', and it's like, 'okay but she has to want to play more. I'd like to see her play a couple more tournaments before the end of the year. Naomi might learn a little bit."

Shriver also mentioned how she wanted Osaka to take inspiration from Serena Williams and play more tournaments this season in an attempt to rediscover form. She referred to Williams' triumph at the Australian Open in 2007.

"Reflecting back on some of Serena's long journey, when I think back to how Serena was able to win the 07 Australian Open, outside the Top 70, unseeded, out of shape, hadn't played any matches, and then worked her way into form. Really, the best way to do that is just to play matches. You get sparks of motivation by seeing glimpses of your best self and then that makes you want to go out and work harder,"