Naomi Osaka says she’s had ‘so many doubts’ about whether she’s a ‘good mom

Naomi Osaka celebrated her 26th birthday on October 16th, and the tennis champ is getting reflective about the special milestone. Days after her birthday, she took to social media to share a powerful message about motherhood, and it’s something that most parents will surely relate to whether they’ve got little ones, adult kids, or any age in between.

In both English and Japanese, Osaka wrote, “I look back on my life and it feels like I’m rewinding an old vhs tape, it flashes by so quickly and suddenly I’m here in the present.”

“Randomly I wonder if I’m doing okay,” she continued, “is there a correct path to take in life or have I veered off onto the scenic route for a little bit? However, I’ve now come into the mindset that I can only keep moving forward and everything that will be, will be.”

It seems Osaka’s reflections have extended to her new role as mom to her 3-month-old daughter, Shai — who she shares with her partner, rapper Cordae. “Something I had to conquer recently is fighting the thought that I won’t be a good mom,” she revealed. “So many doubts raced through my head I had to swat them away like mosquitoes.”

“Looking into Shai’s eyes and holding her I always think, ‘Wow this little person depends on me so much, I have to do better,'” she shared. “It’s such a strange feeling watching your kid grow, you blink and they’re double the size in a few months.”

“Gratefulness reminds me to breathe and take in the little things (and the big ones). I’m so grateful to have another year and I’m so thankful to everyone that believes in me, love you and thank you,” she signed off.

The message resonated with Osaka’s fans and followers, who took to the comments on her Instagram post to share their thoughts. “Motherhood is a beautiful journey full of life lessons and transitions,” wrote one person. “The fact that you are questioning your parental skills proves that you are a good mum. We all go through it

” wrote another. “You are a terrific mom,” said another, adding, “we all had doubts. Celebrate all the hard work that has got you here. Continue to believe in yourself. Happy birthday

.”

Here’s hoping that Osaka had a wonderful birthday and that she knows she is doing great in her new role as a mama. By sharing her honest thoughts, she no doubt will help another new parent out there who might be struggling, feeling the same. If that’s you, just know you’re doing your best, too, and that’s all that matters.