Naomi Osaka, a four-time Grand Slam champion, has opened up about how becoming a mother has reshaped her approach to tennis and life. After giving birth to her daughter Shai in July 2023, Osaka took a 15-month hiatus from the sport to focus on her new role as a mother. Upon her return, she revealed that motherhood has made her more efficient, especially in her tennis training. Unlike before, when she could spend hours on the court, Osaka now ensures that every second counts, aware that her daughter is waiting for her at home.
Motherhood has also brought a new sense of resilience and confidence to her life. Osaka reflected on the challenges she faced during her pregnancy, which included testing positive for Group B streptococcus and enduring a difficult labor. She admitted that overcoming these hurdles has made her stronger mentally, a strength she now applies to her tennis career.
Osaka also shared that she no longer has time to dwell on her losses. Before becoming a mother, she would sometimes linger on disappointments, but now she feels the need to move on quickly, both for herself and her daughter. This shift in mindset has made her more focused and determined.
Looking ahead, Osaka is committed to being a role model for her daughter, balancing the demands of professional tennis with motherhood. She plans to return to competitive play while continuing to invest time in her various entrepreneurial ventures.
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