Naomi Osaka shocked the world when she candidly revealed her “extremely bad” period of postpartum depression after giving birth to baby Shai. Her painful but powerful sharing shocked the tennis world and fans around the world. And how she bounced back after that time, details in the comments below
In a stunning display of vulnerability, tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has once again broken barriers by opening up about her intense battle with postpartum depression following the birth of her daughter, Shai, in July 2023. The four-time Grand Slam champion, known for her advocacy on mental health issues, shared her raw experiences in the new Tubi documentary “Naomi Osaka: The Second Set,” released in August 2025. Her revelations have sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond, highlighting the often-overlooked struggles of new mothers, even those in the public eye.
Osaka, who stepped away from professional tennis to focus on motherhood, described her postpartum period as “extremely bad.” In an exclusive clip from the documentary, she admitted, “Honestly, I also had extremely bad postpartum [depression], and I didn’t know how to deal with it that well.” She explained that prior to giving birth, friends and family had warned her about the potential emotional challenges, but she brushed them off, believing her resilience would carry her through. “I thought I would be fine,” she said, reflecting on her naivety. Instead, the reality hit hard: feelings of isolation, overwhelming anxiety, and a profound sense of failure as a mother. Osaka confessed to moments where she felt disconnected from her baby, questioning her abilities and battling intrusive thoughts that made daily life feel insurmountable.
The tennis community and fans worldwide were stunned by her candor. Osaka has long been a trailblazer in discussing mental health, famously withdrawing from the 2021 French Open to prioritize her well-being amid depression and anxiety. This latest disclosure builds on that legacy, but with a deeply personal twist tied to motherhood. Social media erupted with support, as fellow athletes like Serena Williams and Coco Gauff praised her bravery. Fans shared their own stories, turning her pain into a catalyst for broader conversations about postpartum mental health. Organizations like Postpartum Support International noted a surge in inquiries following her interview, underscoring the global impact.
Yet, Osaka’s story is not just one of struggle—it’s a testament to resilience and recovery. After months of grappling with her emotions, she sought professional help, including therapy and building a support network. “I felt like a failure as a mom,” she revealed, but through gradual steps, she began to reclaim her sense of self. Exercise played a key role in her bounce-back; returning to the court provided not only physical outlet but also mental clarity. By early 2024, Osaka made her competitive comeback at the Brisbane International, signaling her determination to balance motherhood and her career.
Her journey culminated in a strong showing at the 2025 US Open, where she reached the quarterfinals, proving that vulnerability doesn’t equate to weakness. Osaka credits Shai as her greatest motivator, often sharing heartwarming moments on social media that show her thriving as a parent. She has also partnered with mental health initiatives, launching campaigns to destigmatize postpartum depression and encourage new mothers to seek help early.
Osaka’s powerful sharing reminds us that even icons face human frailties. By bouncing back stronger, she inspires millions, turning personal pain into a force for positive change in the world of sports and maternal health. Her story encourages open dialogue, proving that recovery is possible with support and self-compassion.
