Naomi Osaka’s husband has always been a topic of curiosity among fans, especially after her long relationship with rapper Cordae. Their story mixed love, respect, and quiet moments away from fame.
Even though their bond ended in early 2025, Cordae’s influence on Osaka’s life remained clear. They shared mutual admiration and supported each other’s careers, proving love can thrive privately.
Osaka’s openness about her relationship showed she values honesty and balance over publicity. Whether discussing parenting or personal growth, she always emphasized respect, maturity, and emotional connection as the foundation of true love.
Profile summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Naomi Osaka |
| Profession | Professional Tennis Player |
| Known For | Four-time Grand Slam Champion and former World No. 1 |
| Ex-Husband/Partner | Cordae (Rapper) |
| Relationship Timeline | Began dating in 2019, welcomed a daughter in 2023, split in January 2025 |
| Daughter’s Name | Shai |
| Nationality | Japanese |
| Date of Birth | October 16, 1997 |
| Place of Birth | Osaka, Japan |
| Famous Moment | Winning her first Grand Slam at the 2018 U.S. Open |
| Known Traits | Calm, determined, outspoken about mental health awareness |
| Net Worth (Approx.) | $50 million |
| Current Status | Focused on her tennis comeback and motherhood |
Who Is Naomi Osaka’s Ex-Boyfriend?
Naomi Osaka’s ex-boyfriend is the talented rapper Cordae, known for his lyrical depth and creative artistry. Their relationship first made headlines back in 2019 when they began dating quietly before eventually going public. Cordae and Osaka were admired for how they balanced fame with privacy, often keeping their personal lives out of the spotlight. Together, they welcomed a daughter in 2023, marking a major milestone in both their lives. However, their romance came to an end in early 2025, leaving fans curious about their journey as a couple.
Early Life and Childhood
Cordae Amari Dunston, widely known as Cordae, was born on August 26, 1997, in Raleigh, North Carolina. He grew up in a musical household, where his father introduced him to hip-hop legends like Nas and Jay-Z. These early influences shaped his love for music and storytelling. During his teenage years, Cordae began writing lyrics and posting freestyles online, slowly building his reputation as a thoughtful rapper. His upbringing wasn’t glamorous, but it gave him the drive to create art that reflected real struggles and ambitions, helping him connect deeply with his audience later on.
Initial Public Appearances
Cordae first entered the public eye as part of the YBN collective, alongside rappers like YBN Nahmir and YBN Almighty Jay. His breakout moment came when he dropped remixes that quickly gained traction on YouTube, showing off his lyrical skill. Around 2019, he began making public appearances with Naomi Osaka, sparking curiosity among fans. One of their earliest joint appearances was at a Los Angeles Clippers game, which subtly confirmed their romance. As his fame grew, Cordae balanced red carpet events, interviews, and performances, earning recognition not just for his music but also for his down-to-earth personality.
Career Highlights and Breakthrough Moments
Cordae’s career took off when he released his debut album The Lost Boy in 2019, which earned Grammy nominations and widespread acclaim. Critics praised his thoughtful lyrics and old-school flow mixed with modern energy. He continued to evolve as an artist with his second album From a Birds Eye View in 2022, collaborating with big names like H.E.R. and Young Thug. His success extended beyond music, as he gained recognition in the entertainment world for his creativity and influence. Every project he touched showed maturity, purpose, and the drive to inspire his listeners.
Impact on Public Perception
Cordae’s relationship with Naomi Osaka gave fans a deeper look at his kind, grounded nature. He wasn’t just known as a rapper but also as a supportive partner who respected Osaka’s individuality and success. His calm, mature attitude earned him admiration across social media. People loved how he stayed genuine even under public scrutiny, never exploiting their relationship for fame. His thoughtful actions—like being there for Osaka during her mental health challenges—reshaped how audiences viewed him, highlighting his compassion and authenticity rather than just his celebrity status.
Rumors, Myths, and Common Misconceptions
Like many public figures, Cordae and Naomi Osaka faced their share of rumors. Fans speculated about their status multiple times, especially when Osaka removed photos of him from her Instagram in 2023. Some assumed they had split long before it was confirmed, but the couple later clarified that they were still together at the time. Another common misconception was that Cordae only gained fame through Osaka, but his career had already been established well before their relationship. He earned respect in music independently, proving his talent went beyond being known as “Osaka’s boyfriend.”
Verified Sources and Public Statements
The most reliable details about Cordae and Osaka’s relationship come directly from their own interviews and social media posts. Osaka herself confirmed their breakup on Instagram in January 2025, addressing fans with honesty and grace. In past interviews, both Cordae and Osaka had spoken warmly about each other, sharing glimpses of mutual respect and teamwork, especially in parenting. Publications like People and InStyle featured verified insights, keeping their story grounded in facts. Their transparency helped dispel false narratives and showed that even public figures can handle private matters with dignity and maturity.
Comparisons With Peers
Cordae often stands out among his peers for his lyrical depth and humility. While many rappers lean toward flashy lifestyles, he focuses more on purpose and message-driven art. In the same way that Osaka redefined tennis with authenticity and grace, Cordae reshaped hip-hop by keeping it thoughtful and relatable. Fans and critics have compared him to artists like J. Cole and Kendrick Lamar for his introspective tone. Yet, he’s built his own lane—balancing mainstream appeal with substance, something few artists manage while still staying true to who they are.
First Date at an L.A. Clippers Game
Cordae and Osaka’s love story began with a simple, low-key first date at a Los Angeles Clippers game in 2019. It wasn’t extravagant or staged for attention—just two young stars getting to know each other away from the cameras. They kept their relationship private during its early months, allowing them to bond without the noise of fame. In a later interview, Cordae recalled how special that day was, mentioning it as one of their sweetest memories. Their chemistry was natural and effortless, setting the tone for the strong connection they built over time.
Career as a Rapper
Cordae built his reputation as a versatile rapper who blends old-school lyricism with modern beats. His style often draws inspiration from socially conscious themes, tackling issues like success, struggle, and self-awareness. Over the years, he’s collaborated with major artists and performed at festivals like Lollapalooza, earning respect for his craft. His music doesn’t just entertain—it inspires. Even Naomi Osaka once praised his dedication, saying his work ethic motivated her to stay focused on her own goals. Cordae’s growth from mixtape artist to global performer shows how far talent and discipline can go.
Support for Osaka’s Mental Health
During Osaka’s public struggles with mental health, Cordae was one of her biggest supporters. When she felt isolated during the 2020 US Open, he flew out immediately to quarantine with her, just so she wouldn’t feel alone. That gesture deeply moved fans and became one of the defining examples of their relationship’s strength. He didn’t use her vulnerability for attention; instead, he offered quiet support behind the scenes. Osaka later said that having someone who understood her emotional world made a huge difference, reflecting the caring and steady nature of their bond.
Relationship Privacy
Despite being two public figures, Cordae and Osaka made a conscious effort to keep their relationship private. They rarely posted about each other online and avoided unnecessary media attention. Cordae once explained that relationships are “sacred” and shouldn’t be influenced by outside opinions. That approach helped them maintain peace and authenticity for years. Fans often admired how they managed to stay grounded while being in the spotlight. Their love story was about connection, not performance—something rare in the entertainment world where most relationships unfold under constant scrutiny.
Family Life: Sharing a Daughter
In 2023, Cordae and Osaka welcomed their daughter, Shai, into the world. Osaka described motherhood as one of the most rewarding experiences of her life. The couple shared their joy through heartfelt posts and interviews, revealing how becoming parents brought them even closer. They worked together as a team, learning the ins and outs of raising a child while balancing their busy careers. Despite their later breakup, both continued to prioritize Shai’s happiness. Osaka once said that her daughter’s name means “God’s gift,” symbolizing how special she is to both parents.
Interests and Hobbies
Beyond music, Cordae has a wide range of interests. He’s known for his love of fashion, often attending major style events like the Met Gala with Osaka. He also enjoys fitness and spent time working out with her, sharing progress online. Cooking was another shared hobby—Osaka once revealed that Cordae loved her fried chicken and homemade biscuits the most. When he wasn’t in the studio, Cordae preferred quiet, meaningful moments with family or friends. His hobbies reflected his balanced lifestyle, mixing creativity with simplicity, which fans found refreshing and real.
Achievements: Emmy Win
Among his many accomplishments, Cordae achieved a remarkable milestone when he won an Emmy for his musical contributions. This recognition proved that his artistry extended far beyond chart success. His Emmy highlighted his versatility and influence in pop culture. It also cemented his reputation as an artist who could bridge music and storytelling in powerful ways. For fans, this win wasn’t just another trophy—it was validation of the hard work and dedication he’d shown since his early mixtape days. His creative journey continues to inspire both aspiring musicians and longtime supporters.
Split Announcement in January 2025
In January 2025, Naomi Osaka took to Instagram to confirm that she and Cordae had ended their relationship. Her message was short, honest, and heartfelt, expressing gratitude while asking for privacy. Fans responded with understanding, reflecting the respect the couple had earned over the years. The breakup marked the end of an era for both, but they remained united as parents to their daughter, Shai. Though their romantic chapter closed, their story continues to be remembered for its warmth, maturity, and the deep bond they once shared.
Final Thoughts
Naomi Osaka’s love life has always fascinated fans, not because of the headlines, but because of how gracefully she handles it. Her relationship with Cordae showed that even under the glare of fame, love can stay genuine and grounded. They shared laughter, growth, and the joy of welcoming their daughter, proving that true connection isn’t about constant attention—it’s about shared understanding.
Even after their split, Osaka continues to shine, balancing motherhood and her tennis comeback with strength and calm. Her journey reminds everyone that endings aren’t failures—they’re just new beginnings, shaped by experience and self-love.
