Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy, states intention to return to tennis for Australian Open 2024

ByRob Hemingway

Updated 11/01/2023 at 18:00 GMT

Naomi Osaka announced news of her pregnancy on social media via a "little life update" that now can likely be seen as the reason why she chose to miss this year's Australian Open. Osaka did however state that she is aiming to return to tennis for next year's Australian Open in 2024. "2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me," Osaka wrote.

Naomi Osaka has announced that she is pregnant with her first child.

Osaka chose to miss this year's Australian Open with the announcement coming from the event's organisers, and the 25-year-old has now revealed the reason for her absence.

"Can't wait to get back on the court, but here's a little life update for 2023," she began in her social media post, that included a photo of her ultrasound scan.

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"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.

"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 realise that life is so short and I don't take any moments for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure.

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"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 some of my matches and tell someone, 'That's my mom'."

Osaka also stated her intention to return to tennis for the Australian Open in 2024.

Naomi Osaka

Image credit: Getty Images

"2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me, and I hope I'll see you guys at the start of of the next one 'cause I'll be at Aus 2024."

Osaka, a four-time major winner, last played at the Tokyo Open in September, where she withdrew with illness ahead of her second-round match against Beatriz Haddad Maia.

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