In a disappointing turn of events at the Australian Open, two-time champion Naomi Osaka had to withdraw from her highly-anticipated match against Belinda Bencic due to an abdominal injury that has been troubling her since last year. This withdrawal is another setback for Osaka, who has also faced challenges away from the court, including mental health issues and the recent birth of her daughter, Shai, in July 2023.
Osaka’s Injury Forces Early Exit
During the match, Osaka began to show signs of distress as she struggled with her serve, which clearly indicated that something was wrong. After an intensely fought first set, which ended in a tiebreaker at 7-6 (3), Osaka made the difficult decision to retire. Not only did this decision come after an incredible effort, but it also marked her exit from the tournament less than an hour into the match with a total of 57 minutes played.
A Long Road Back to the Top
Naomi Osaka’s journey has been far from easy since her return to competitive tennis. The injury that hindered her performance this week initially started during a tournament in Beijing back in October 2024, and she aggravated it during her second-round win in Melbourne. Even though she emerged victorious in that round, it raised concerns about her physical condition as she faced her next opponent.
What Did Bencic Say?
Belinda Bencic expressed her sympathy for Osaka’s situation, stating that she hopes for her swift recovery. Bencic’s victory is bittersweet as her next match will be against either Coco Gauff or Leylah Fernandez, who are both strong competitors known for their skills on the court.
Osaka’s Remarkable Comeback Attempt
Before this match, Osaka had shown promising signs of returning to form. She had successfully reached the third round for the first time in a Grand Slam since 2022, defeating Karolina Muchova in a thrilling match earlier in the tournament. The 1-6, 6-1, 6-3 comeback showcased her determination and impressive skills, suggesting she was knocking on the door of her former excellence.
The Future for Osaka
The latest injury is a reminder of the difficulties athletes often face off the court. Osaka has explicitly prioritized her mental health in recent years and spent time away from the sport to focus on herself and her family. As she navigates motherhood and her tennis career, Osaka’s future is filled with possibilities, although the path may now be even more challenging following this injury.
Global Attention and Support
Fans around the world are rallying in support of Osaka as she battles through this latest setback, and her journey continues to inspire countless fans. With her remarkable achievements and significant contributions to tennis, it is clear that Osaka holds an important place in the sport, and many await her strong return to the game.
| Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Won Australian Open |
| 2022 | Third-round appearance at Grand Slam |
| 2023 | Birth of daughter Shai |
| 2025 | Injury withdrawal during Australian Open |