Two-time Australian Open winner Naomi Osaka sensationally pulled out of the Australian Open with an abdominal injury, sending local qualifier Maddison Inglis to the fourth round for the first time.
After back-to-back three-set victories over Antonia Ruzic and Sorana Cirstea, Osaka announced on social media on Saturday night that she would not be able to play against world No.168 Inglis. The official reason is an injury to the left abdomen.
Naomi Osaka and her post on the social network.Credit: Getty Images/Instagram
“I had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to deal with something my body needed attention for after my last fight,” Osaka said on Instagram.
“I was so excited to keep going and this run meant the most to me, so it’s heartbreaking to have to stop here, but I can’t risk any more damage so I can get back on the court. Thanks for all the love and support… I’m so grateful everyone has given me so much hugs.”
“And thanks to my whole team for always having my back and the tournament organizers for being such kids.”
Osaka headlined the Australian Open when she walked into Rod Laver Arena for her first-round match in a jellyfish-inspired outfit, complete with an umbrella, which included a nod to her viral butterfly moment at the 2021 Australian Open.
The 28-year-old Japanese superstar also faced retired Cirstea in the second round, who had trouble with Osaka pumping herself up and audibly saying “Come on” between her first and second serves.
The two players had an icy post-match exchange, with Osaka still rattled as she finished her on-court conversation before later apologizing when speaking to the media.
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