(Tennis news) Naomi Osaka had ruled herself out of the Australian Open due to an undisclosed reason and has now revealed that she is expecting her first child. The 25 year old is one of the highest earning female athletes according to Forbes but has seen her ranking slip to 47 after not playing since September when she withdrew in the second round in Tokyo. Osaka has won only one completed match since May and has been eliminated in the first round in three previous tournaments including the US Open.

“Can’t wait to get back on the court but here’s a little life update for 2023. The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that its 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 realize that life is so short and I don’t take any moment for granted, everyday is a new blessing and adventure.

“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 my matches and tell someone, ‘that’s my mom’. 2023 will be a year that’s full of lessons for me and I hope to see you guys at the start of the next one because I’ll be at Aus 2024. Love you all infinitely. I don’t think there’s a perfectly correct path to take in life but I always felt if you move forward with good intentions you’ll find your way eventually.” – Naomi Osaka on social media

Osaka claimed her maiden Grand Slam at the 2018 US Open, defeating Serena Williams 6-2 6-4. She then went on to win the 2019 Australian Open, overcoming Petra Kvitova in the final 7–6 (7–2) 5–7 6–4. The Japanese player then won her second US Open title against Victoria Azarenka 1-6 6-3 6-3 in 2020 and went on to win her fourth Grand Slam title in Australia, overcoming American Jennifer Brady 6-4 6-3.

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