Days after a semifinal finish at the US Open, Naomi Osaka’s campaign at the China Open is set to be one of the main attractions. As she prepares for the WTA 1000 event, an interesting development has surfaced with her ex-boyfriend, renowned rapper Cordae, arriving in China. Osaka and Cordae began dating in 2019 and welcomed their adorable daughter, Shai, in July 2023.
How Did Naomi Osaka’s Ex-Boyfriend Cordae Show Up Ahead of Her China Open Campaign?
Osaka and Cordae’s relationship often made headlines, blending the worlds of sports and pop culture into one of the most talked-about pairings. They were often spotted together on social media and regularly engaged with each other’s posts.
They were also seen together at several major events, including NBA games and the Met Gala, particularly after the pandemic. Although rumors of tension occasionally surfaced, the couple had consistently put them to rest.
Cordae consistently supported the Japanese star, standing by her side during her return from maternity leave and often attending her matches, including WTA 1000 events in Doha and Indian Wells. By the end of last year, their relationship seemed steady as they attended the birthday party of American singer and actor Jamie Foxx.
However, only days later, Osaka revealed that she and Cordae had mutually decided to part ways, an update that sent shock waves within the tennis fraternity. In an Instagram note, the Japanese star clarified that the split was on good terms and expressed gratitude for the time she shared with the rapper.
As noted, Osaka recently wrapped up her stellar North American hard-court campaign with a semifinal finish at the US Open. Her attention now shifts to the Asian swing, beginning in Beijing. Meanwhile, Cordae arrived in the city and shared a picture of the iconic Great Wall of China on his Instagram story.
Although Cordae’s presence in the Chinese capital overlaps with Osaka’s, it remains unclear whether the 28-year-old is there to attend her matches. Interestingly, the four-time Grand Slam champion also recently visited the Great Wall, sharing a carousel of photos from her trip on Instagram.
Osaka’s performance at the US Open proved pivotal in helping her rediscover the true potential she had long been seeking. It also propelled her into the top 15, and she now sits at world No. 14. Entering the China Open as the 12th seed, the Japanese star will be eager to replicate her deep run from the North American swing.
Osaka received a direct entry into the second round, where she will face Aliaksandra Sasnovich in what marks their fifth meeting on tour. She will likely hold a psychological edge, boasting a 4-0 head-to-head record against Sasnovich.
