Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy after withdrawing from Australian Open
- News comes days after former world No 1 said she would not play this month in Melbourne
- The four-time grand slam winner has been dating rap artist Cordae since 2019
Former world No 1 Naomi Osaka has revealed she is pregnant and will be taking a break from tennis until 2024.
The tennis star shared the news on Wednesday in a social media post featuring an ultrasound image and a message in English and Japanese reflecting on her journey in tennis and the life lessons she’s gathered.
“The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that it’s the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun,” she wrote. “These few months away from the sport has really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I’ve dedicated my life to.
“I realize that life is so short and I don’t take any moments for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure. I know that I have so much to look forward to in the future, one thing I’m looking forward to is for my kid to watch one of my matches and tell someone, ‘that’s my mom.’, haha.”
The post comes three days after Osaka, a two-time champion, confirmed she would not play at the Australian Open. The four-time grand slam winner said she planned to be back for the 2024 edition.
Tennis legend Billie Jean King was among those who sent well wishes to Osaka, writing “Congratulations from both of us!” on the original Twitter post. King is married to former pro tennis player Ilana Kloss.
Osaka has been dating rap artist Cordae since 2019. He has yet to make a public statement about the pregnancy.
In May 2021, Osaka withdrew from the French Open after not taking part in post-match news conferences, citing the need to take care of her mental health. In September of that year, she announced she was going to take a break from tennis with no set date to return.
Osaka played in 2022, including in the Miami Open in April when she reached the finals. She also competed in the Pan Pacific Open in September, but withdrew in the second round because of illness.
