Naomi Osaka has been making headlines in the world of tennis with her impressive performance and four Grand Slam wins. But did you know that she is not the only one in her family with a talent for the sport? Her elder sister, Mari Osaka, was also a professional tennis player. However, in a surprising turn of events, Mari has decided to retire from tennis and pursue a different career path. So, what led to this decision and what is Mari up to now in 2025?
Mari Osaka was born on April 3, 1996, in Osaka, Japan, just like her younger sister Naomi. Both sisters were introduced to tennis at a young age by their father, Leonard Francois, who was inspired by the Williams sisters. Mari showed great potential in the sport and started playing professionally in 2014. She quickly rose through the ranks and reached a career-high ranking of 280 in singles and 116 in doubles.
Mari and Naomi have always been supportive of each other’s careers and have even played doubles together in some tournaments. However, in 2020, Mari announced her retirement from tennis at the age of 24. This came as a shock to many, as she was still young and had a promising career ahead of her. So, what led to this decision?
In an interview, Mari revealed that she had been struggling with injuries and mental health issues for a while. She had been dealing with a shoulder injury and was also diagnosed with depression and anxiety. These issues had been affecting her performance on the court and she felt that it was time to prioritize her well-being over her career.
Mari’s decision to retire from tennis was met with mixed reactions from fans and the media. While some praised her for prioritizing her health, others were disappointed to see her leave the sport. However, Mari remained firm in her decision and focused on her recovery and finding a new path for herself.
So, what is Mari Osaka up to now in 2025? After taking some time off to focus on her mental and physical health, Mari has found a new passion in the world of fashion. She has always been interested in fashion and has even designed some of her own tennis outfits. In 2023, she launched her own clothing line, “Mari by Osaka,” which has been well-received by fans and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Mari’s clothing line features a mix of Japanese and Western styles, reflecting her multicultural background. She has also collaborated with her sister Naomi on some designs, making it a family affair. In addition to her clothing line, Mari has also been working as a fashion consultant for various brands and has been featured in several fashion magazines.
While Mari may have retired from tennis, she has found success and fulfillment in her new career. She has also been using her platform to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of self-care. Mari has been open about her struggles and hopes to inspire others to prioritize their well-being.
In conclusion, Mari Osaka’s decision to retire from tennis may have come as a surprise, but it was a necessary step for her to focus on her health and happiness. She has found success and passion in the world of fashion and continues to inspire others with her journey. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors and look forward to seeing more of her designs in the years to come.
