Tennis star Naomi Osaka is undoubtedly a legend. The Haitain-Japanese athlete has been ranked number one in the world in singles and is the first Asian player to hold the top ranking. She’s also a four-time Grand Slam singles champion, holds two Australian Open and two US Open titles, and won her first two major titles in back-to-back tournaments. This made her the first Japanese player to win a major singles title and the first woman to win successive major singles titles since Serena Williams in 2015.
Proof of her excellence is endless. However, like the rest of humanity, she’s been through her tougher seasons too. Here’s the latest on Naomi Osaka, from navigating injuries to an unexpected breakup.
Naomi and Cordae Break Up
Amid navigating parenthood and the demands of an athletic career, Naomi Osaka is also facing a new chapter in her personal life. The tennis star and rapper Cordae have announced their split after six years of dating. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Shai, in July 2023.
The 27-year-old shared the news on Instagram, writing, “Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship. No bad blood at all—he’s a great person and an awesome dad.” She added, “Honestly, really glad our paths crossed because my daughter is my biggest blessing, and I was able to grow a lot from our experiences together,” ending the heartfelt message with a red heart emoji.
Osaka and Cordae began dating in 2019, keeping a low profile while publicly supporting each other’s careers. Cordae was a regular presence at Osaka’s matches, even celebrating on court with her team after her 2020 U.S. Open win. Osaka, in turn, spoke highly of Cordae’s artistry, praising his second album, From a Bird’s Eye View: “He actually writes his lyrics. He has to take the time to actually experience the things that he does. It’s a really fascinating process.”
Despite their split, the two remain amicable and committed to co-parenting their one-year-old daughter.
Naomi Withdraws ASB Classic Final
The two-time Australian Open champion made her return to tennis after maternity leave in January 2024, kicking off the 2025 season with a strong performance by reaching her first final in nearly three years at the ASB Classic.
“Time away from the sport has really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I’ve dedicated my life to,” Osaka reflected. “I realize that life is so short, and I don’t take any moments for granted. Every day is a new blessing and adventure. I know I have so much to look forward to in the future. One thing I’m especially excited about is for my kid to watch one of my matches and tell someone, ‘That’s my mom.’”
However, her inspiring run was cut short when she was forced to retire from the ASB Classic final in Auckland due to an abdominal injury. The withdrawal shocked many, as Osaka showed no signs of pain during the 35-minute opening set against Danish opponent Clara Tauson. After winning the first set, she immediately called for a medical timeout after converting her second set point. Following a brief consultation with her trainer, a visibly emotional Osaka decided to retire, shaking hands with Tauson.
“I just want to thank everyone for welcoming me to such a beautiful city,” she said in her closing remarks. “I had a lot of fun playing here, and I’m really sorry about how it ended.”
Naomi Continues to Prevail
It’s the challenge that makes the wins even greater. Despite it all, Osaka welcomed 2025 with gratitude and optimism.
“I’ve come to the conclusion that what’s meant for me is meant for me, and maybe certain situations occur to train my mind for what’s to come,” she wrote via Instagram. “Maybe there’s bigger and better things on my path and I just have to continue the journey to encounter them. That being said, this is about to be a great year.”
A champion and a mother, Osaka continues to prove that women are unstoppable. The world roots for her as she alchemizes strife into power.