Naomi Osaka announces pregnancy: 'A little life update for 2023'

Naomi Osaka has announced she is expecting her first child in a heartfelt Instagram post, reflecting on her months away from the tennis court and her "interesting" last few years.

The athlete, 25, shared the news with fans this morning, posting a picture of an ultrasound in a carousel of images, with the caption: "Can't wait to get back on the court but here's a little life update for 2023."

This will be the first child for Osaka and rapper boyfriend Cordae, 25.

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This news comes days after reports tennis officials were struggling to track down the superstar to confirm her attendance at the Australian Open. In her post, Osaka said she'd return to the event in 2024.

In a statement shared in English and Japanese in the slides of her Instagram post, Osaka shared reflections on her next chapter.

"The past few years have been interesting to say the least, but I find that it's the most challenging times in life that may be the most fun," she wrote.

"These few months away from the sport have really given me a new love and appreciation for the game I've dedicated my life to."

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"I realise that life is so short and I don't take any moments for granted, every day 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 one of my matches and tell someone, 'that's my mum,' haha."

The athlete vowed to make a return to tennis in 2024.

"2023 will be a year that'll be full of lessons for me and I hope I'll see you guys in the start of the next one cause I'll be at Aus 2024. Love you all infinitely," she wrote.

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Osaka and Cordae began dating back in 2019 with their first date being at an L.A. Clippers game.

At the time, Cordae told GQ in an interview that he didn't know his date was a tennis superstar.

"If you asked me about tennis, before being immersed in it because of Naomi, I could only give you Venus and Serena Williams, you know? Because they're just a part of the culture."