“I don’t want my name to be erased,” Naomi Osaka opens up on the changes motherhood brings into her life in a candid conversation with Nick Kyrgios

Osaka became a mother for the first time in July 2023 when she welcomed her daughter Shai with her boyfriend Cordae.

“I don’t want my name to be erased,” Naomi Osaka opens up on the changes motherhood brings into her life in a candid conversation with Nick Kyrgios

Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios (Images via IMAGO)

Nick Kyrgios continues to amaze fans with the variety of guests he has been able to bring on his show. Produced by the joint venture of Naomi Osaka and LeBron James, ‘Good Trouble with Nick Kyrgios’ has quickly become a fan favorite in a short time. Featuring in the latest episode is Osaka herself.

The entire episode featuring the Japanese star is yet to be released, but the teaser itself has netizens waiting desperately. Kyrgios posted a montage of some of the best bits of their conversation that included her vision since becoming a mom. Osaka and her boyfriend Cordae welcomed their daughter Shai on 7th July 2023.

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When many expected her to take an extended break, she returned to the Tour just five months later, having started training weeks after the childbirth. The two-time Australian Open singles winner was at her candid best in answering the question that showed her hunger for success.

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I just feel like every second counts. I have this thing about making history and I don't want my name to be erased.
said Naomi Osaka.

Kyrgios posted a heartfelt caption along with the trailer on his social media accounts. He has often talked highly of Osaka for her career and boldness in deciding what’s best for her. While it has been perceived as unorthodox or unconventional by many, it hasn’t bothered the two-time US Open singles winner at all.

Naomi Osaka touches upon the topic of taking a break from tennis for mental health

Osaka donned a black jacket for the interview while Kyrgios wore a varsity jacket with the text ‘OSAKA’ designed on it. It’s no secret how much the former World No. 13 has admired the Japanese star and the jacket was yet another testimony to it.

Naomi Osaka
Naomi Osaka at the French Open 2021 (Image via IMAGO)

Similarly, one of his questions revolved around Osaka’s infamous French Open campaign in 2021. She refused to take part in any press conference, citing her mental health reasons. While it received a mixed reaction then, Osaka was unbothered and continued to prioritize herself.

As a result, she skipped various events and was ready to take a hit on her ranking and career. The Aussie praised her for this boldness, admitting he couldn’t muster up the courage to do something similar. Osaka’s answer again showed what makes her different from the rest on the Tour. 

Before you're a tennis player, you're a human. You have to treasure yourself a lot and you also have to stick up for yourself.
said Naomi Osaka

With players continuing to battle their mental health issues with the hectic life on the Tour, Osaka has been a good example in recent times to show it’s ‘okay’ to take a break. Although Osaka is yet to reach her peak form, she has shown flashes, and it is just a matter of time before she is back to where she belongs.

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