Naomi Osaka's former partner still dealing with fallout of breakup in latest song: "Was never my intention to raise a daughter in separate homes"
WTA
Naomi Osaka's former partner, rapper Cordae, has seemingly addressed their separation in a new song, reflecting on the challenges of raising their daughter in separate households while appearing to reveal that he is expecting a second child. The lyrics feature on 'Helpless', a track from Heavy is the Crown, his newly released collaborative album with Anderson .Paak.
The song offers a rare public reflection on the end of Cordae's relationship with the four-time Grand Slam champion, who confirmed their split in January 2025. Osaka and the American rapper began dating in 2019, before welcoming their daughter, Shai, in July 2023. They had announced the pregnancy earlier that year, during a period when Osaka was away from professional tennis.
Osaka stepped away from the sport in September 2022 and subsequently revealed that she was expecting her first child. After giving birth, the former world No. 1 took maternity leave before returning to competition at the Brisbane International in January 2024. Her comeback marked a new chapter in her career, with motherhood becoming an important part of her life away from the court.
The Japanese star announced the end of her relationship with Cordae through an Instagram Story on January, 2025, describing the separation as amicable. The pair have a daughter together and continue to share that parental responsibility. Cordae's new lyrics now appear to offer his perspective on their breakup, although the song does not establish further details about their current personal circumstances.
Cordae addresses Osaka split and co-parenting in new song
Cordae, whose relationship with Osaka began before her return to the top of women's tennis, reflects on the difficulties of raising their daughter in separate homes.
"I'm finna have my second child, although we still ain't said our vows," Cordae raps on the track. "Was never my intention to raise my daughter in separate homes / Gave your mom my all, but the love she had for me dead and gone."
The lyrics continue with Cordae acknowledging the importance of accepting responsibility for mistakes and expressing emotions through his music. "Although you ain't a man if you can't admit it when you was wrong / Can't see it coming down my eyes, so do it through this song."
The apparent reference to a second child has not, in the information available, been independently confirmed. The song nevertheless provides a more personal account of the relationship's end, with Cordae reflecting on both the loss of the partnership and the reality of co-parenting.
Osaka previously addressed their separation in her January 2025 announcement, making clear that she did not hold negative feelings towards her former partner.
"Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship," she wrote. "No bad blood at all, he's a great person and an awesome dad."
The Japanese player also expressed gratitude for their time together, describing their daughter as her "biggest blessing". More recently, Osaka appeared to show support for Cordae by liking a social media post promoting Heavy is the Crown.
The album also features Anderson .Paak reflecting on his own personal experiences, including the breakdown of his marriage to Jaylyn Chang after 13 years together.
Osaka prepares for next tournament after China Open run
Osaka is currently ranked world No. 19 and is preparing for her next appearance in Tokyo. Her most recent tournament was the China Open, where she defeated Maria Timofeeva and Sara Bejlek before losing to Karolina Muchova in a third-set tie-break.
The Japanese player has enjoyed several notable runs during the 2026 season, reaching the final in Bad Homburg and semifinals in DC Open. However, she was forced to retire due to injury during the Bad Homburg final.
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At Grand Slam level, Osaka recorded her best results to date at the French Open and Wimbledon, reaching the fourth round and quarter-finals, respectively.
Her next appearance in Japan will provide another opportunity to compete in front of a home crowd as she continues her season. The former world No. 1 will be challenge by the Italian Jasmine Paolini in the first round.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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