Tennis champion Naomi Osaka recently spoke about parenthood and being a new mother to her daughter Shai, whom she shares with rapper Cordae, as she prepared to return to the Australian Open, which she has won twice.
According to The New York Beacon, Osaka made her comeback to the tour earlier this month at the Brisbane International, her first major tournament following motherhood. The Guardian claims that Karolina Pliskova, the three-time champion, defeated Osaka in the second round.
In an interview with Glamour, the 26-year-old advocated for the implementation of paid parental leave. Osaka discovered that the United States is among the few nations without a national paid parental leave policy while she was a young lady residing in the country.
She said, “When I heard the stats, I was really shocked. I’m lucky enough to not have to go straight into work, but I needed that time to process everything that’s happened and, of course, get to know my baby.”
Furthermore, Osaka and the formula maker Barbie are starting a new marketing campaign that includes providing 50 families with financial gifts to temporarily assist them while advocating for nationally paid leave.
According to data, the United States is one of only six nations in the world without a national paid parental leave policy. According to the report, 73% of Americans do not have paid leave provided by their employers, and as a result, one in four women returned to work within two weeks after giving birth.
Sharing a video of herself and Shai on Instagram, Osaka urged others to be parents by writing, “Being a parent is hard.” I’m used to working hard and getting up early because I’m a professional athlete, but the last six months as a new mother have completely changed my perspective on what parents do on a daily basis.
“And I recognize that I’m fortunate to have the support to return to work this month on my own terms, in my own time. So many American parents don’t have that choice. But we ALL deserve it.”
She continued: “84% of Americans support paid leave, and yet 73% of parents don’t have it. If passed, the Family and Medical Leave Act would give 12 weeks paid leave, job protection, and guarantee a minimum monthly benefit of $580. So, while we fight to pass it this year, Bobbie and I are giving $580 to 50 families, called the N.O. Support Grants. It’s not a solution, but it’s a start. I hope you will join me in getting loud about this issue on behalf of all new parents in America.”
In conclusion, she asked supporters to “Apply for a N.O. Support Grant at the link in my bio. #BobbiePartner #parentspushharder.”