Naomi Osaka has pulled out of the Australian Open just before her third-round match. The 16th seed was set to face Maddison Inglis on Rod Laver Arena, but Inglis will now advance to the next round by default.
Osaka shared on Instagram that she had to withdraw due to a physical issue that required attention following her previous match. She expressed her disappointment at having to end her run at the tournament but emphasized the importance of prioritizing her health to avoid further harm.
In a statement to the media, Osaka revealed that she had been struggling with a recurring injury and had hoped to play through it. However, after warming up for her match, the pain intensified, prompting her decision to withdraw and seek medical evaluation.
Acknowledging the changes in her body post-pregnancy, Osaka stressed the need for caution and additional tests to address her current physical condition. She expressed gratitude for the support from fans, her team, and the tournament organizers during this challenging time.
Having secured victories against Sorana Cirstea and Antonia Ruzic in earlier rounds, Osaka’s withdrawal marks her second consecutive tournament exit due to health issues. Her participation in the United Cup in Perth at the beginning of the year was also affected by health concerns, impacting her performance on the court.
Despite facing setbacks, Osaka remains optimistic about her future performances and aims to focus on her health and well-being to make a strong comeback. Her decision to prioritize her physical condition reflects her commitment to long-term success in her career.