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Naomi Osaka Earns New Nickname After WTA Tournament Win

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Geca Flores | Last updated May 4, 2025 10:52 PM ET

Tennis icon Naomi Osaka made an epic comeback at the WTA tournament.

On Sunday, the 27-year-old was hailed as the Grand Slam winner at the L’Open 35 de Saint-Malo in France after defeating Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan with a 6-1, 7-5 score.

With this, Osaka claimed her first title after four years and her first-ever trophy on clay.

While doing so, the Japanese player expressed her deep gratitude to fans and supporters in a heartfelt Instagram post.

In the caption, she acknowledged that playing on clay, which she initially thought was her "worst," ultimately led her to reflect on a positive outlook on life.

“Kinda ironic to win my first trophy back on the surface that I thought was my worst. That’s one of my favorite things about life though, there’s always room to grow and evolve. Thanks to everyone accompanying me on this journey, I know it’s turbulent but it’s also really fun and I’m grateful,” she wrote.

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A post shared by 大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka)

The post garnered not just congratulatory messages from fans but also an outpouring of admiration for her resilience and positive attitude.

“So proud of you always!! Congrats on the title!! So happy for you!!” one wrote.

“Ups and downs you have already proven it to yourself. Such a joy to support you,” a fan added.

In addition to the positive reactions from her followers, the four-time Grand Slam winner also received a new nickname from fans.

After her victorious moment at the WTA tournament, fans affectionately dubbed Osaka "Clayomi," a playful blend of Naomi and clay, as it marked her first-ever win on the clay surface.

“CONGRATS MAMA!!!! I’M SO PROUD OF YOU! CALL HER CLAYOMI,” a follower commented.

“We’re locked in, Clayomi,” another user said.

“Way to claim, Clayomi. Winning looks good on you,” a fan chimed in.

Social media users continued to hype Osaka, often referring to her by her new moniker.

“We love you, Clayomi,” a commenter remarked, while another fan said, “Congrats, Clayomi.”

The same goes for others who wrote “With you every step of the way. Let’s go Clayomi,” while a different user said, “Come onnn, Clayomi!!!!”

In addition to her first win on clay, this victory also marked Osaka's first triumph after taking a maternity break.

The tennis champion welcomed her first child, a baby girl named Shai, in July 2023, whom she shares with her ex-boyfriend, rapper Cordae.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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