Home/Tennis

via Getty

via Getty

Former US Open champion Naomi Osaka has proven that where there’s a will, there’s a way. After becoming a mother, this WTA star encountered significant challenges with her body—a transformation that tested her physically and mentally. As an athlete, these changes led to moments of frustration. Yet, the Japanese player didn’t give up. Instead, she remained focused on her goals, pushing through the boundaries with intense determination. Her recent social media update shows her resilience proving how with sheer grit and perseverance, anything is possible.

Osaka recently opened up about her challenges and journey through postpartum body transformation after the birth of her daughter, Shai, last year. The Japanese player revealed her struggles with body image on social media, sharing moments of insecurity and strength. “Honestly, I don’t really know what to caption this post. I wanted to say ‘body changes throughout the year,’ but it actually means a lot more to me than that. There were moments this year where I felt really ashamed of my body, like when I had to wear form-fitting tennis clothes,” she confessed. Despite these hurdles, Osaka’s determination helped her regain confidence in her body.

In a recent IG Story, the player showcased her transformation in a fitted tennis outfit, standing in front of a mirror. “Yeah, yeah, yeah, you know, okay, I think this outfit looks better in person. I don’t think we’re doing it justice, but I might be back in my on-court outfit,” she said. Reflecting on her journey from wearing baggy clothes to embracing her current shape, Osaka added, “For the past three years, I was chubby, but I think we’re back. It’s cold here, though, so baggy clothes are still in, but one thing’s for sure—she’s gonna slay again.” Her words oozed her motivation and highlighted her indomitable spirit. She funnily captioned the clip, “idk what I’m talking about most of the time.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Earlier, Osaka admitted to comparing herself to other new moms who appeared to “snap back” effortlessly post-childbirth. “Seeing other moms seemingly shrink immediately after having their baby became an expectation I placed on myself. As an athlete, I thought I should be losing weight faster. I was in the gym every day, so it didn’t feel unrealistic,” Osaka revealed. Her honesty resonated with many women – highlighting the universal struggle of postpartum self-doubt.

Despite all this, the Japanese hardly stopped loving and appreciating her body. In a heartwarming note, Naomi Osaka expressed gratitude for her resilience which inspired her followers to embrace their transformation journeys with grace and strength.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Naomi Osaka is “grateful and thankful” for what her body has done for her

In a candid confession in October, Osaka expressed a renewed motivation about her body. Reflecting on how she is embracing it, the WTA star said, “Most weeks would feel similar to the previous week and the weight didn’t disappear overnight so it was a bit disheartening. To get to the point I’m at now was definitely a journey, an adventure I know that I’m still embracing. All bodies are different and I appreciate mine for how it is.” Her statement showcased her resilience in finding strength in her body, which put her in a lot of self-doubt.

Not only did she reveal about embracing it, but she also expressed gratitude for her body, “My body has done so much for me and adapted so well to the tasks that I’m asking from it, I’m extremely grateful and thankful. While typing this I realized that if I had to title this post it would be super long and go like- “thank you body for the journey over the past year, I’m excited to learn more about what you’re capable of in the years to come ❤️ ” haha.” Despite challenges, her confidence and spirit inspired the fraternity receiving applause for her mental strength.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Naomi Osaka’s body transformation highlights her indomitable spirit. It shows how courageous she is on and off the court. Following such motivation, Osaka supporters are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season ahead. Do you think she can finally bring her playstyle wonders in the coming year?