Despite persistent public curiosity and speculation, the four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka does not currently have a "husband" and has, in fact, never been married. The search for a husband is a common misconception, as the tennis superstar was in a highly publicized, long-term relationship with Grammy-nominated American rapper Cordae, with whom she shares a daughter. However, the most recent and significant update in her personal life, as of late 2024, is the news of their separation, which took place after over five years of dating and shortly after the birth of their child.
The intensely private athlete and the acclaimed rapper quietly navigated their relationship for years, often offering only glimpses into their world. Their journey included a pregnancy announcement and the arrival of their baby girl, Shai, in July 2023. This article dives deep into the identity of her former partner, the timeline of their romance, the details of their recent split, and how the Japanese tennis star is balancing her 2024 tennis return with her new role as a single mother.
Who Is Cordae? The Man Who Was Naomi Osaka's Long-Term Partner
The individual most frequently mistaken for Naomi Osaka's husband is the father of her child, the rapper known professionally as Cordae. Born Cordae Amari Brooks (né Dunston) on August 26, 1997, the American artist quickly rose to prominence in the hip-hop scene. He is a critically acclaimed musician whose work is known for its introspective lyrics and technical skill, earning him multiple Grammy Award nominations.
Cordae began his career as part of the YBN collective before pursuing a successful solo career. His debut album, The Lost Boy, was released in 2019, the same year his relationship with Osaka began. He has often been described as one of the most promising young voices in rap, and his music career continues to thrive independently of his high-profile former relationship. His current net worth is estimated to be between $6 and $7 million, primarily accumulated through his music, tours, and various business ventures.
- Full Name: Cordae Amari Brooks (né Dunston)
- Date of Birth: August 26, 1997
- Age: 27 (as of late 2024)
- Profession: Rapper, Singer-Songwriter
- Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina, USA
- Net Worth: Estimated $6–$7 Million
- Key Achievements: Grammy Award nominations, former member of the YBN collective.
The Relationship Timeline: From NBA Game to Breakup Announcement
Naomi Osaka and Cordae’s relationship was a fascinating blend of two high-achieving worlds—tennis and hip-hop. They first met in 2019 at an LA Clippers basketball game, a meeting that Cordae initially confessed he knew nothing about Osaka's status as a tennis superstar. This genuine, un-star-struck beginning formed the foundation of their five-year romance.
Their relationship quickly became a public favorite, with Cordae often seen supporting Osaka at major tournaments, including the US Open and the Australian Open. He even wrote a song dedicated to her, showcasing the depth of their connection. They maintained a relatively private life despite their fame, a conscious effort by Osaka to protect their personal space.
The biggest news came in January 2023 when Osaka announced her pregnancy, revealing that she would take a break from tennis. Their daughter, Shai, was born in July 2023, a name chosen because it means "gift" in Arabic. However, just months after welcoming their child, subtle signs of trouble began to surface. Osaka deleted all photos of Cordae from her social media in September 2023, hinting at a possible split. The breakup was officially confirmed and widely reported around the start of the 2024 tennis season, ending one of the most talked-about relationships in sports and music.
Naomi Osaka’s New Chapter: Co-Parenting and the 2024 Tennis Comeback
Following the separation from Cordae, Naomi Osaka has fully embraced two new, demanding roles: single mother and returning elite athlete. The focus has shifted entirely to co-parenting her daughter Shai and reigniting her tennis career. While the exact details of their co-parenting arrangement are kept private, both Osaka and Cordae are reportedly committed to raising their daughter together. Osaka has praised Cordae in the past, suggesting a respectful and supportive dynamic, which is essential for Shai's well-being.
Her return to the WTA Tour in 2024, after a 15-month maternity leave, has been a major storyline in the tennis world. This comeback is not just a personal challenge but also a significant professional one, as she navigates the physical demands of the sport while balancing motherhood. Key highlights of her 2024 season include:
- Early Success: Winning her first match of the new season in a return from injury.
- Deep Runs: Reaching the Quarterfinals at the Doha tournament and a final in a smaller WTA 125 event.
- Major Challenge: A notable, high-level performance against world number one Iga Swiatek at the French Open, proving she can still compete with the best.
Her estimated net worth remains robust, standing at approximately $45 million in 2024. This wealth is heavily driven by her lucrative endorsement deals with global brands, a testament to her enduring appeal as a powerful and influential figure both on and off the court. Her financial stability provides a strong foundation for her new life as a single, co-parenting athlete.
The Impact of the Split on Her Public and Professional Life
The breakup with Cordae marks a pivotal moment in Naomi Osaka's life, shifting her public narrative from a celebrated couple to an independent, powerhouse athlete and mother. Her decision to return to the court in 2024, despite the personal upheaval, underscores her dedication to her career and her desire to set an example for her daughter.
The relationship between a top-tier athlete and a musician is inherently complex, involving intense travel schedules, public scrutiny, and the challenge of maintaining individual careers. While the reasons for the separation are private, the pressure of balancing these two demanding lives, especially with a newborn, is often cited as a major factor in celebrity breakups. Osaka and Cordae’s focus on co-parenting Shai is a mature and forward-looking approach, allowing both to continue their professional pursuits while remaining dedicated parents.
Ultimately, the search for Naomi Osaka's "husband" leads to a more compelling and current story: that of a single, powerful woman navigating a major life transition, dominating her sport, and embracing the challenges of motherhood. Her 2024 tennis return is a strong statement of her independence and resilience, proving that her focus remains firmly on her daughter, her career, and her own well-being.
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