OSAKA OUT OF AUSTRALIAN OPEN

Naomi Osaka’s 2026 Australian Open campaign came to a shocking end on Saturday when the two-time champion confirmed she was withdrawing from the Grand Slam due to an abdominal injury.

The announcement came just hours before her scheduled third-round clash. The Japanese star, seeded 16th in Melbourne, had been set to face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis, but will now watch from the sidelines as Inglis advances straight into the Round of 16 via walkover.

Osaka revealed the difficult decision on her Instagram account, saying she’s “so excited to keep going” and that “this run meant the most to me,” but she couldn’t risk further damage to her body. Her statement made it clear that protecting her long-term health was the priority — even if it “breaks my heart” to bow out.

The 28-year-old veteran, who’s a four-time Grand Slam winner and two-time Australian Open titlist (2019 and 2021) had already battled through two tough three-set matches earlier in the tournament.

Though she hoped a break before the third round would help, a warm-up only made the discomfort worse. Osaka acknowledged this was a recurring abdominal issue she’s dealt with before and said she needs more tests to assess the situation properly.

Her week in Melbourne had been filled with talking points. From a striking, jellyfish-inspired entrance outfit that went viral, to a tense second-round encounter with Sorana Cirstea that sparked debate around on-court behaviour and sportsmanship.

Image credit: People