Naomi Osaka is out of the 2026 Australian Open.
The four-time Grand Slam champion and two-time Australian Open winner announced Saturday that she has withdrawn from the competition due to an abdominal injury suffered during her second-round match against Sorana Cirstea.
In an Instagram Story shared Friday night, Osaka explained the difficult decision to step away.
“I’ve had to make the difficult decision to withdraw to address something my body needs attention for after my last match.I was so excited to keep going, and this run meant the most to me, so having to stop here breaks my heart. But I can’t risk doing any further damage so I can get back on the court.Thanks for all the love and support. I’m so grateful everyone embraced me so much.
And thank you to my whole team for always having my back, and the tournament organizers for being so kind.”
Osaka, 28, entered the Australian Open making an immediate impact. In the first round, she defeated Antonia Ruzic in a hard-fought three-set match, winning 6-3, 3-6, 6-4 and showcasing her trademark grit and resilience.
In the second round, Osaka faced Sorana Cirstea in another demanding three-set battle, earning a 6-3, 4-6, 6-2 victory. However, the physical toll of the match ultimately led to her withdrawal before her scheduled third-round matchup against Australia’s Maddison Inglis.
Osaka later explained that the pain worsened during warm-ups and needed to be addressed to avoid further damage.
Related: Naomi Osaka Stuns the Australian Open Crowd With Bold Custom Outfit: 'Let’s Bring Theatre Back to Tennis'
Controversy and Conversation On Court
Osaka’s appearance at the Australian Open was not without controversy. Her second-round match sparked debate after Cirstea expressed frustration over Osaka’s mid-game vocalizations, calling them “distracting.”
Umpires ultimately sided with Osaka, and she was not penalized for her verbal self-encouragement between points.
Fashion, Motherhood, and Support From Fans
@espn#NaomiOsaka #AustralianOpen #tennis #AusOpen #espnsocial
♬ this feeling - ØneheartDespite the setback, Osaka was also celebrated for her bold fashion choices during the tournament. One standout moment included a jellyfish-inspired ensemble, complete with a parasol and veil, worn during her second-round entrance. The look was inspired by a children’s book she had read to her daughter.
Osaka is one of three mothers currently ranked in the women’s top 20 and has previously shared that her body has “changed” since welcoming daughter Shai in 2024.
Fans were quick to rally around the tennis star on social media.
“You will rise again,” wrote one supporter, echoing the sentiments of many who praised Osaka’s strength, honesty, and resilience in the face of disappointment.
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