Naomi Osaka redefines career following maternity leave and hiatus

Naomi Osaka is redefining her professional tennis career following a hiatus driven by mental health challenges and motherhood. After winning four Grand Slam titles between 2018 and 2021 and reaching the world No. 1 ranking, Osaka took a break that included the birth of her daughter, Shai, in July 2023.

In the 2026 season, Osaka demonstrated a resurgence in form, reaching the fourth round of Roland Garros and her first Wimbledon quarterfinal, where she defeated world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. Her US Open campaign ended in the sixth round following a loss to Elena Rybakina.

Having navigated various coaching changes and a return to the tour in early 2024, Osaka appears to be prioritizing a career built on her own terms rather than solely chasing additional major titles. She has indicated that her perspective on success has shifted following her time away from the sport.