Why being a mother is making Naomi Osaka’s tennis career ‘difficult’

Naomi Osaka motherhood impact on her tennis career

Guardian report details Osaka’s struggles after her Miami Open exit, where she lost 7-5, 6-4 to qualifier Talia Gibson following a first-round bye.

“I feel like this also is a dilemma for me. Obviously, I would love to play, but like I said last year … for me, my daughter is very important, and I want to be a mom.

“I want to be the best mom I can, but sometimes I feel like I know what I have to do to become a really good player, and it’s very difficult,” Osaka said.

Osaka’s 2026 season has yet to find rhythm, with early exits continuing from the Australian Open through Indian Wells and now Miami.

Her schedule is also under consideration, with doubts emerging over whether she will fully commit to the upcoming clay swing.

Naomi Osaka prioritising family over tennis results

Naomi Osaka made it clear that her long-term decisions will not be driven purely by results, especially if it affects her role as a mother.

“For me, like I said last year, I’m not going to stay on tour if I’m losing in the first round. I’d rather just be a great mom and be there for my daughter,” Osaka continued.

“Because for me, I want to win titles and I want to be the best player I can, but if I have to sacrifice having a lot of time with my daughter, I’d rather not do it,” she concluded.

That stance introduces a clear trade-off between performance and personal priorities, particularly as Osaka looks to return to title contention.

At this stage of her career, the balance appears unresolved, with results and scheduling both shaped by that ongoing decision.