Naomi Osaka Reveals Her Big Plans for Daughter Shai—Will She Be the Next Tennis Star?

Naomi Osaka Reveals Her Big Plans for Daughter Shai—Will She Be the Next Tennis Star?

Naomi Osaka has always been a force to be reckoned with on the tennis court, but now, she’s setting her sights on something even bigger—shaping the future of her daughter, Shai. The four-time Grand Slam champion has revealed her hopes for her little girl, sparking speculation on whether Shai will follow in her footsteps and become the next tennis sensation.

 

Motherhood and a Fresh Perspective

Since giving birth to Shai in July 2023, Osaka has embraced motherhood with the same determination she brings to her game. Her return to the WTA Tour in 2024 proved that she’s more focused than ever, balancing the demands of elite competition with raising her daughter. But in a recent interview, Osaka shared a revelation that has fans buzzing—she would love for Shai to play tennis.

 

“I think it would be really cool if she played,” Osaka admitted. “But I don’t want to force anything. I just want her to find joy in whatever she chooses.”

 

Early Signs of a Tennis Legacy?

Though Shai is still a baby, Osaka has already introduced her to the sport in small ways, from watching matches together to letting her hold a racket. While Osaka is taking a relaxed approach, she can’t help but wonder if her daughter will develop a passion for the game.

 

“If she picks up a racket and loves it, I’ll support her 100%,” Osaka said. “And if she wants to do something else, that’s completely fine too.”

 

Despite her open-minded stance, Osaka has hinted at how special it would be to coach her daughter one day, passing down the skills, mindset, and work ethic that made her a champion.

 

Lessons from Osaka’s Own Journey

Osaka knows firsthand the challenges that come with being a young tennis prodigy. Trained by her father from an early age, she experienced the pressures of competitive sports and the mental toll it can take. Now, as a mother, she wants to ensure that Shai’s journey—whether in tennis or another field—is filled with joy rather than stress.

 

“I’ve learned so much from my own experience, and if she ever plays, I want it to be on her own terms,” Osaka explained. “I just want her to be happy and confident in whatever she does.”

 

The Future of the Osaka Legacy

As Osaka continues her comeback, fans are excited to see how her career unfolds in this new chapter of her life. And while it’s too early to predict if Shai will one day step onto the court as a future champion, one thing is certain—she has a mother who will support her every step of the way.

 

Whether Shai follows in her mother’s footsteps or forges her own path, Naomi Osaka’s influence on the game—and her daughter’s life—will be undeniable.