Naomi Osaka’s life off the tennis court has captivated fans as much as her powerful performances on it. From her high-profile relationship with rapper boyfriend Cordae to embracing motherhood and navigating a very public breakup, Osaka has handled it all with grace and authenticity. Her journey into parenthood and her evolving personal life have become integral parts of her story, showcasing a woman who is redefining what it means to be a champion, both in sports and in life. Despite the challenges, including postpartum depression and a split from her partner, Osaka has emerged with renewed purpose, using her experiences to inspire others and fuel her incredible comeback in the tennis world.
As of September 2025, Osaka continues to balance professional tennis with co-parenting her daughter, Shai, while maintaining an amicable and supportive relationship with Cordae. Her openness about struggles and triumphs has resonated deeply, making her not just a sports icon but a relatable figure for many. Recent updates highlight her successful return to form, including a strong showing at the 2025 US Open, where she defeated Coco Gauff and advanced to the quarterfinals, proving that motherhood has added a new layer of motivation to her already stellar career.
Relationship with Cordae: From Romance to Co-Parenting
Naomi Osaka and Cordae, the Grammy-nominated rapper, began their relationship in 2019 after meeting at an LA Clippers game. Their connection was immediate, built on shared values of ambition and authenticity, and they quickly became one of sports and music’s most beloved couples. Cordae was a constant presence in Osaka’s career, supporting her at major tournaments like the US Open and Australian Open, often seen cheering her on from the stands. Their public appearances, including the 2021 Met Gala, and heartfelt social media tributes showcased a partnership that was both supportive and deeply affectionate.
However, in January 2025, Osaka announced via Instagram that they had decided to end their romantic relationship. She emphasized that there was “no bad blood” and praised Cordae as “a great person and an awesome dad.” Despite the split, they remain committed to co-parenting their daughter, Shai, whom they welcomed in July 2023. Osaka has spoken fondly of their ability to maintain a strong foundation, focusing on what’s best for their child. This amicable approach has allowed them to continue supporting each other’s careers while raising Shai together, with Cordae even being spotted cheering for Osaka at the French Open in May 2024.
Motherhood and Personal Growth
Becoming a mother has profoundly transformed Naomi Osaka’s life and perspective. She gave birth to her daughter, Shai, in July 2023, and the experience has been both challenging and rewarding. The name “Shai,” meaning “gift” in Hebrew, reflects the joy and purpose she has brought to Osaka’s life. However, the early months of motherhood were not without difficulties; Osaka experienced severe postpartum depression, which she candidly discussed in her documentary, Naomi Osaka: The Second Set. She described feeling like “a shell of herself” and struggling with identity and purpose during this period. Despite these challenges, Osaka has consistently emphasized that Shai is her “biggest blessing” and has given her a renewed sense of motivation.
This newfound purpose is evident in her tennis career. Osaka returned to the sport in early 2024 after maternity leave, and while her comeback had its ups and downs, she has recently found her stride. By August 2025, she reached the quarterfinals of the US Open, defeating Coco Gauff in an impressive display of skill and mental toughness. Osaka has spoken about how motherhood has changed her approach to tennis, making her more grateful for the sport and aware of the possibilities beyond it. She now plays not just for herself but for Shai, hoping to inspire her daughter and other mothers by showing that it’s possible to pursue one’s passions while embracing the joys and challenges of parenthood.
