Naomi Osaka has pulled out of the Australian Open just before her third-round match, where she was set to face Maddison Inglis. As a result, Inglis will progress to the next round by default.
In a statement on Instagram, Osaka explained that she had to withdraw due to a physical issue that emerged after her previous match. Despite her excitement to continue competing, she expressed disappointment at having to stop playing to avoid exacerbating the problem.
Acknowledging the support she received, Osaka thanked her fans, team, and the tournament organizers. She disclosed to the media that the injury she experienced was something she had dealt with in the past, but this time, the pain worsened during warm-up, prompting her decision to withdraw.
Having faced challenges with her health and physical condition, Osaka attributed some of the issues to changes in her body post-pregnancy, emphasizing the need to be cautious moving forward. This marks her second consecutive tournament withdrawal after the Japan Open last year.
During her recent matches in Melbourne, Osaka had tough encounters against opponents like Sorana Cirstea and Antonia Ruzic, demonstrating her resilience despite physical setbacks. Prior to the Australian Open, she competed for Japan in the United Cup but struggled with health issues that impacted her performance.
Osaka remained optimistic before the tournament, aiming to take each match as it comes and prioritize her well-being. Her dedication to returning to peak condition reflects her commitment to the sport despite facing health challenges.
By withdrawing from the Australian Open, Osaka prioritizes her health and recovery, focusing on addressing her physical concerns to ensure a strong comeback in future competitions.