Naomi Osaka has made a late withdrawal from the Australian Open just ahead of her scheduled third-round match. The 16th seed was set to face Maddison Inglis on Rod Laver Arena, but due to Osaka’s decision, the Australian qualifier will now progress to the last 16.
In a statement shared on her Instagram account, Osaka explained her withdrawal, citing the need to address a physical issue that arose after her previous match. Expressing disappointment at having to halt her run in the tournament, she emphasized the importance of prioritizing her health to prevent further harm and ensure a swift return to the court.
Speaking to Tennis Australia, Osaka disclosed that the injury she experienced was not unfamiliar to her and had resurfaced during her recent matches. Despite attempting to manage the discomfort, the situation worsened during her warm-up for the upcoming game. She acknowledged the need for additional medical evaluation, particularly considering the changes her body has undergone post-pregnancy, highlighting the importance of caution moving forward.
This development comes after Osaka’s victory against Sorana Cirstea in a grueling match and her withdrawal from previous tournaments due to injuries. The tennis star’s challenges with health issues were evident earlier in the season during her participation in the United Cup in Perth, where she faced setbacks but remained determined to compete.
Looking ahead, Osaka remains optimistic about her future performances but acknowledges the necessity of approaching each match with a focus on her well-being. Her decision to prioritize her health underscores the significance of maintaining physical readiness for continued success on the court.