On Saturday night at the Atlanta Cup, Naomi Osaka captivated tennis enthusiasts during an exhibition match against Aryna Sabalenka. Following the thrilling event, Osaka engaged with her fans through a Q&A session on Instagram, where she shared insights on various topics, including her experiences as a mother.
During the interactive segment, a fan reached out with a heartfelt question, expressing struggles with the transition to motherhood. “I’m a new mom and struggling with this new role/identity shift. What helped you get through?” Osaka’s candid response resonated deeply with many, showcasing her thoughtful approach to parenting.
“I’m not going to lie to you, I also struggled tremendously,” Osaka admitted. She emphasized the importance of self-reflection, stating, “I think for me, I journaled a lot to keep track of how I felt.” Her time on the tennis court also served as a source of solace. “I was also lucky because I could play tennis, and being on the court was a place of comfort for me.”
Osaka encouraged her followers to carve out moments for personal joy amidst the challenges of motherhood. “I would suggest you make time to do things that make you happy and also enjoy your new role because I promise you the time is going to go so quick, and before you know it, your baby is going to be talking back to you with sass.”
Despite her desire to maintain her daughter’s privacy, Osaka remains open about her parenting journey, offering relatable advice to those navigating similar paths.
In January 2023, just days before the Australian Open, Osaka announced her withdrawal from the tournament, revealing that she was expecting her first child with rapper Cordae. She vowed to return to the sport post-maternity leave, and she did so in 2024. Despite facing injuries, Osaka concluded the year with a singles record of 22-17, successfully re-entering the top 75 of the WTA Rankings.
Osaka’s persistence paid off as she continued to find her footing in 2025, finishing the season ranked World No. 16 with a singles record of 35-15. She also triumphed at the WTA 125K tournament in Saint Malo, marking a significant achievement in her comeback.
As the 2026 WTA season approaches, excitement builds among fans eager for more compelling storylines from Osaka and her peers. Keep an eye on updates from the tennis world, including insights from players like Frances Tiafoe, who recently shared his coaching decisions, and Nick Kyrgios, who reflected on his journey through the 2025 season.
Osaka’s blend of athletic prowess and genuine connection with her audience continues to inspire both on and off the court.
