Professional tennis player Naomi Osaka recently shared her experience with pregnancy and the challenges she faced, shedding light on the difficulties that are often not openly discussed. Osaka, 26, revealed on TikTok that her first pregnancy and childbirth were traumatic, impacting her decision on having more children in the future.
Osaka became a mother in July 2023 when she welcomed her daughter, Shai. Reflecting on her pregnancy journey, she expressed gratitude for the new perspective it brought to her life and her renewed appreciation for the sport she loves. Despite the complications she faced during pregnancy, including testing positive for Group B streptococcus and enduring a labor that lasted over 12 hours, Osaka remained resilient.
In a candid interview with InStyle, Osaka emphasized the challenges of pregnancy that are often overlooked, stating that the journey is not always as smooth as it may seem. She highlighted the physical and emotional toll that pregnancy can take on women, underscoring the need for more open conversations about the topic.
Despite the difficulties she encountered, Osaka expressed her desire to return to tennis after taking a break to focus on motherhood. She acknowledged the itch to get back on the court and resume training, emphasizing the sense of restriction and adjustment that came with stepping away from the sport she is deeply passionate about.
Throughout her journey, Osaka has maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the importance of moving forward with good intentions and embracing the challenges that life presents. Her resilience and determination serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing her strength both on and off the tennis court.