Naomi Osaka has opened up about her split from sports agency Evolve, describing the experience as far removed from what she had originally envisioned.
Osaka launched Evolve in 2022, alongside her longtime agent, Stuart Duguid, after her contract with IMG expired. The agency was formed in the aftermath of her successful 2021 season, which saw her claim her fourth Grand Slam title at the Australian Open.
In December, Osaka announced she was stepping away from Evolve after a three-year partnership and re-joining IMG, with Ben Rothenberg first reporting the news at the time.
Now, in another sit-down interview with Rothenberg ahead of this year’s Australian Open, Osaka explained her reasons for leaving the venture, revealing that she felt she lacked control over key decisions despite her name being prominently associated with the project:
“There are just some things that I disagreed with. And having your name so publicly attached to something, and then like every decision they make, I don’t have control in that—it was just really stressful for me.”
Evolve’s client roster has included high-profile players such as Nick Kyrgios and Ons Jabeur among its first signings, with Aryna Sabalenka also represented by the agency. Other players who have been part of Evolve include Iva Jovic, Terence Atmane, Eva Lys, and Anna Kalinskaya.
Osaka Set to Open Australian Open Campaign Against Ruzic
Seeded 16th at this year’s Australian Open, Osaka is set to begin her campaign against world No. 65 Antonia Ruzic.
The former world No. 1 opened her 2026 season at the United Cup with Japan, recording one win and one loss in singles competition. She finished last season with a 27–13 record, marking a resurgent year as she continues her bid to return to peak form.
Set to compete in her ninth Australian Open, Osaka is a two-time champion at Melbourne Park. She reached the third round last year and holds an overall record of 26–7 at the tournament.
Osaka and Ruzic are set to square off against each Tuesday, Day 3 of the Australian Open.
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