Turbulence closure modeling using machine learning is at an early crossroads. The extraordinary success of machine learning (ML) in a variety of challenging fields had given rise to an expectation of similar transformative advances in the area of turbulence closure modeling. However, by most accounts, the current rate of progress toward accurate and predictive ML-RANS (Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes) closure models has been very slow. Upon retrospection, the absence of rapid transformative progress can be attributed to two factors: the
underestimation of the intricacies of turbulence modeling and the overestimation of ML’s ability to capture all features without employing targeted strategies. To pave the way for more
meaningful ML closures tailored to address the nuances of turbulence, this article seeks to
review the foundational flow physics to assess the challenges in the context of data-driven
approaches. Revisiting analogies with statistical mechanics and stochastic systems, the key
physical complexities and mathematical limitations are explicated. It is noted that the current
ML approaches do not systematically address the inherent limitations of a statistical approach
or the inadequacies of the mathematical forms of closure expressions. The study underscores
the drawbacks of supervised learning-based closures and stresses the importance of a more
discerning ML modeling framework. As ML methods evolve (which is happening at a rapid
pace) and our understanding of the turbulence phenomenon improves, the inferences expressed
here should be suitably modified.