Yutaka Nakamura is a world-renowned leader in athletic performance, recognized for developing elite athletes through innovative, science-driven training methods. With over two decades of experience, he has contributed to the success of multiple Grand Slam champions and rising stars in tennis.
As a staff member of the Japan Olympic Committee (JOC), Yutaka supports Japanese athletes competing at the highest levels of international sport.
He priviouly worked with Emma Raducanu and played a pivotal role in guiding Naomi Osaka to her 2020 US Open and 2021 Australian Open victories.
From 2018 to early 2020, Yutaka served as Head of Tennis Strength and Conditioning at IMG Academy, leading training for academy players, elite juniors, professionals, and IMG clients. He also directed a team of trainers and coaches responsible for shaping athletic development across the program
From 2011 to 2018, Yutaka was the Strength and Conditioning Coach for Maria Sharapova. During this period, she completed a career Grand Slam with a win at the 2012 French Open, returned to the World No. 1 ranking, and captured her fifth Grand Slam title at the 2014 French Open.
Yutaka’s career began at the Saddlebrook Sports Complex in Tampa, Florida—home to the legendary Harry Hopman Tennis and Arnold Palmer Golf Academies. In 2000, he supported Jennifer Capriati in her comeback, helping her later capture three Grand Slam titles.
In 2005, Yutaka became Director of Performance at IMG/Bollettieri Academy, overseeing the Strength and Conditioning program for more than 300 full-time students, over 1,000 short-term athletes annually, and elite professionals including Kei Nishikori, Tommy Haas, Mary Pierce, Xavier Malisse, Max Mirnyi, and others
Through the Morita Masaaki Tennis Fund (MMTF), Yutaka helped develop Kei Nishikori from age 13 to 20. In 2008, Nishikori won the ATP title in Delray Beach at just 18 years old—becoming the first Japanese man in nearly 16 years to win an ATP event.
In 2010 and 2011, he served as a Strength and Conditioning Coach and consultant for Tennis Australia, working with Davis Cup team members.
Education & Accreditation
Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology, with an emphasis in Athletic Training, from Chapman University
Certified Performance Specialist (XPS) from EXOS