Naomi Osaka says she is nearing the best level that previously brought her four Grand Slam titles, while also casting doubt on how long she will continue playing. The 29-year-old, who returned to tennis after 15 months away following the birth of her daughter Shai, says she often thinks about retirement and how her future would change if her child asked her to travel less.
Several outlets report Osaka’s comments that becoming a mother has reshaped her priorities, and that she is “figuring out” how to balance playing with family life. Coverage also notes that she previously stepped away from tennis in 2021 to prioritise her mental health, and that her perspective changes with age.
Some reports also broaden the story beyond her career plans. NDTV and related coverage include details of Osaka’s support for Coco Gauff after Gauff described racist abuse online, and Osaka’s view that social media efforts to address abuse have not fully solved the problem. Other outlets focus more narrowly on Osaka’s form and the possibility of quitting.
