Naomi Osaka confirms split from BF Cordae on social media, says there's 'no bad blood' involved
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Naomi Osaka revealed on Monday, January 6, that she and rapper Cordae have amicably ended their relationship.
The tennis star made the announcement on her Instagram Story, sharing, "There’s no bad blood at all."
Naomi Osaka calls Cordae an 'awesome dad' to their daughter
Naomi Osaka expressed heartfelt gratitude for their shared journey by praising Cordae as a “great person and an awesome dad” to their daughter, Shai, born in July 2023.
“My daughter is my biggest blessing, and I was able to grow a lot from our experiences together,” she shared.
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Inside Naomi Osaka and Cordae's relationship
Naomi Osaka and Cordae first went public in 2019 at an LA Clippers game, but they had kept their relationship private for nearly a year before that.
Cordae became Osaka’s biggest supporter, famously attending her US Open matches in 2019 and 2020.
In a 2020 Instagram tribute, she expressed admiration for Cordae’s unwavering encouragement, sharing how he quarantined just to cheer her on during the tournament.
"I later found out that he hopped on a plane shortly after that call and then quarantined himself for a couple days in a hotel to see me and support," she shared in the since-deleted post.
Hints of trouble in Naomi Osaka and Cordae's relationship
Speculation about a split arose in late 2023 when Naomi Osaka shared cryptic posts on X (formerly Twitter) about self-love and longing for companionship.
"The art of loving yourself," read her post in September 2023.
In another post in October 2023 which has since been deleted, the 27-year-old tennis star wrote, "I just want someone that will watch the sunset with me."
Despite these signs, she later praised Cordae’s co-parenting skills in December 2023, describing their strong communication and mutual dedication to Shai.
"I don't know if it's because he's just an easygoing guy," she said of Cordae.
“I think we just respect each other’s opinions. At the end of the day, we both want what’s best for Shai,” she told InStyle.
Naomi Osaka’s evolving career and priorities
Naomi Osaka has faced challenges returning to her tennis form post-pregnancy, with early exits in three Grand Slam tournaments in 2024.
Despite a promising run at the ASB Tennis Classic in Auckland, she retired due to injury, according to People.
Reflecting on her future in the sport, Osaka admitted, "I'd rather spend time with my daughter if I'm not where I think I should be and where I feel like I can be."
