During a captivating evening at the Atlanta Cup, Naomi Osaka not only showcased her tennis skills but also shared valuable insights with fans. Following her exhibition match against Aryna Sabalenka, Osaka engaged in a Q&A session on Instagram, where she addressed various topics including tennis, television, and personal challenges.
A particularly heartfelt moment arose when a fan, identifying as a new mother, reached out for guidance on navigating the changes associated with motherhood. “I’m struggling with this new role/identity shift. What helped you get through?” the fan asked. Osaka’s response resonated deeply, reflecting her own experiences. “I’m not going to lie to you, I also struggled tremendously,” she wrote. “I think for me, I journaled a lot to keep track of how I felt. I was also lucky because I could play tennis, and being on the court was a place of comfort for me.”
Osaka’s Advice for New Mothers
Osaka continued with her advice, emphasizing the importance of self-care amidst the overwhelming responsibilities that come with 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.” This candid sharing showcases Osaka’s willingness to connect with her audience on a personal level, offering relatable support.
Since welcoming her daughter with rapper Cordae, Osaka has maintained a protective stance regarding her family life, often keeping her daughter out of the public eye. Nevertheless, she openly discusses the challenges and triumphs of parenthood, making her relatable to many of her fans.
Osaka’s journey back to professional tennis has been marked by determination and resilience. Just before the 2023 Australian Open, she announced her withdrawal from the tournament due to her pregnancy. She assured her fans of her intention to return after a year, which she successfully did in 2024. Overcoming injuries, she concluded the season with a singles record of 22-17 and re-entered the top 75 of the WTA Rankings.
A Path Forward in Tennis
In 2025, Osaka continued to refine her game, finishing the season as the World No. 16 with a singles record of 35-15. Notably, she clinched victory at the WTA 125K Saint Malo, demonstrating her ability to rebound during challenging periods, particularly during the clay court season.
The upcoming 2026 WTA season, set to commence in less than a month, promises to bring more exciting storylines for fans and players alike. Osaka’s journey reflects a powerful narrative of balance between motherhood and professional aspirations, inspiring many as she continues to navigate her path in tennis.
As Osaka prepares for the new season, fans remain eager for her next moves on and off the court. For more updates and tennis news, stay connected with Sports Illustrated’s Serve On SI.
