Tennis star Naomi Osaka took to social media Wednesday to share the exciting news that she is expecting her first child, just days after withdrawing from 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,” Osaka shared on Twitter. “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 realize 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 one of my matches and tell someone, ‘that’s my mom,’ haha.”
Can’t wait to get back on the court but here’s a little life update for 2023. pic.twitter.com/GYXRnutU3I
— NaomiOsaka大坂なおみ (@naomiosaka) January 11, 2023
Osaka announced Sunday that she was withdrawing from the Australian Open without specifying a reason, the New York Post reported.
In 2021, Osaka opted out of the French Open and Wimbledon citing a need to focus on her mental health.
“I’ve often felt that people have no regard for athletes mental health and this rings very true whenever I see a press conference or partake in one,” she said at the time. Osaka was fined for not fulfilling her press obligations for the French Open, something she said “wasn’t personal” but necessary for her mental well-being after suffering a loss on the court. “I believe that whole situation is kicking a person while they’re down,” she said in a statement on Twitter, adding that she hoped her fine money would go to a mental health charity. (RELATED: Tennis Star Calls Megyn Kelly An ‘A**hole’ Over Criticism Of Naomi Osaka)
Osaka revealed that she has no plans to retire once her baby is born stating, “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 2024. Love you all infinitely.”