Reason behind Naomi Osaka Australian Open withdrawal confirmed as four-time Grand Slam champion announces pregnancy with 2024 tour return
WTA
The mystery surrounding Naomi Osaka and her withdrawal from the 2023 Australian Open has been confirmed with the former World No.1 and four time Grand Slam champion announcing she is pregnant and will become a mother for the first time in 2023.
Osaka took to social media to release a statement saying that her time away from the sport has given her a new love for it and that she is looking forward to one day her child watching her matches.
The 25-year-old has been in a relationship with American rapper, Cordae since 2019 and has just just got back from holiday with him and now the couple will embark on a new adventure as Osaka becomes the latest WTA star to become a mother and has already set her sights on her return with 2024 earmarked in particular the Australian Open.
"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 said. "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 realise 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 my matches and tell someone, that's my mom. 2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me and I hope I'll see you guys in the start of the next one cause I'll be at Aus (Open) 2023. Love you all infinitely."
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
Based in Leicester, Samuel has a broad background in tennis media. In his current role, he works closely with editors and writers to ensure coverage meets clear journalistic standards, with particular attention to verification, consistency, and timely updates when new information becomes available.
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