Naomi Osaka is finding her rhythm again. After a 15-month break to give birth to her daughter, Shai, the four-time Grand Slam champion is steadily working her way back to top form. Though 2024 was a challenging year, Osaka believes she is finally returning to her pre-pregnancy level.
“It’s definitely been a challenge returning to elite sport after giving birth,” Osaka told The Japan Times. “Recently, I’ve been feeling like I’m returning to pre-pregnancy performance level, and it’s a great feeling knowing that all the hard work I’ve been putting in is paying off.”
Despite a promising run at the Australian Open, Osaka was forced to withdraw due to an abdominal injury. However, she remains optimistic, now working with renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou.
Osaka’s journey is about more than just tennis. She has openly shared her struggles with postpartum body image, mom guilt, and the challenges of balancing her career with motherhood. She admits that being away from her daughter motivates her to succeed.
“Sometimes I feel like I’m missing important moments, so I put extra pressure on myself to win,” Osaka said. “It feels like it’s all for nothing missing this time with my daughter if I’m not getting the results.”
Off the court, Osaka has been navigating personal changes, including her split from longtime partner Cordae. Still, she remains focused on her future, both as a player and a mother. She recently took Shai to Japan to meet her great-grandparents and is even considering buying an apartment in Tokyo.
“I always feel Japanese,” she said. “The food I eat, the clothes I wear, and even my reserved personality—all trace back to Japan.”
As she continues her comeback, Osaka remains determined to chase history as a Grand Slam-winning mother. Whether she reaches that goal or not, her journey is already inspiring a new generation.
Naomi Osaka in 2025
Currently ranked no.42, Osaka played her last match on the 17th of January when she had to retire when playing against world no.157 Belinda Bencic in the 3rd round and the scoreline was 7-6(3) .
Currently, during this year Naomi has achieved a 6-2 match record. Naomi Osaka’s most significant result of the present year was getting to the final in Auckland.
Naomi Osaka will square off with the world no.898 Anna Danilina in the . They have never competed against each other till now in top tournaments.
Osaka got to the final in Auckland (ASB Classic).
The Japanese won 7 titles in her career: all of them conquered on hard courts. (See the list of her titles)
Naomi Osaka |
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