Multiple Grand Slam winner Naomi Osaka has announced she is pregnant and will be away from the court for sometime.
The two-time Australia Open winner made the revelation on social media on Wednesday, stating she will return to tennis in 2024.
The former world number one withdrew from the Australian Open earlier this week, having not featured in any game since September.
“2023 will be a year that’ll be full for lessons for me,” Osaka said in a statement she released on social media.
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“One thing I am looking forward to is for my kid to watch one of my matches and tell someone, ‘that’s my mom’.”
The 25-year-old won the latest of her four Grand Slams at the 2021 Australian Open event.
The superstar has voiced out about the mental health problems she has encountered since the fantastic victory in Melbourne.
She pulled out of Roland Garros in 2021 and later revealed that she had suffered from depression since she won her first major title – the US Open – in 2018. She had beaten tennis legend Serena Williams to claim that historic title.
In September 2021, Osaka took a five-month break from the sport.
Unfortunate return for Osaka
The Japanese, on her return, lost in the third round of the Australian Open. She went on to lose in the first round of the French Open and then missed Wimbledon due to injury.
Osaka, who has now dropped to 47 in the world rankings, also lost in the opening round of the US Open.
She was last seen playing on the court at the Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo back in September.
“The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that it is the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun,” added Osaka.
“These few months away from the sport have 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, every day is a new blessing and adventure.
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“I know I have so much to look forward to in the future.”
Meanwhile, Osaka is only the latest tennis star to announce her pregnancy. Germany’s three-time Grand Slam winner Angelique Kerber revealed her pregnancy in August. She indicated she will return after giving birth.
Also, former world number three Elina Svitolina gave birth last October and should return to playing the sport again this year.
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