Naomi Osaka Reaches US Open Semifinal After Maternity Comeback

Naomi Osaka has made an impressive return to top-level tennis at the 2025 U.S. Open, reaching the semifinals for the first time since 2021 after a dominant performance including a win over Coco Gauff and a tough quarterfinal victory against Karolina Muchova. Osaka, who gave birth to her daughter Shai in 2023, credits motherhood with reshaping her life perspective and has spoken openly about the mental health challenges she has faced throughout her career, including withdrawing from the 2021 French Open due to depression and anxiety. Her comeback has been inspirational, resonating with other players who have faced mental health or body-shaming issues, like fellow semifinalist Amanda Anisimova. A deeply emotional moment occurred when Osaka’s mother, Tamaki, was seen in tears after her daughter's quarterfinal win, highlighting the significance of Naomi's return to form after a prolonged struggle and maternity hiatus. Osaka’s recent results, including a WTA 125 title and a runner-up finish in Montreal, have built momentum leading to her strong US Open showing, where she continues to defy expectations as an unseeded player. The tennis community and fans have embraced Osaka's resilience and success, recognizing her as a source of inspiration both on and off the court.