Naomi Osaka’s Australian Open 2026 campaign came to an abrupt end on Saturday evening after the former world No.1 withdrew from the tournament just hours before her scheduled third-round match in Melbourne. The Japanese star confirmed her decision via social media, citing an abdominal injury that required immediate attention.
Osaka, a two-time Australian Open champion, was due to face Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis in a prime-time Rod Laver Arena clash. Her withdrawal, announced shortly before the match window, saw Inglis advance directly to the fourth round, becoming the first Australian woman since Ashleigh Barty in 2022 to reach the last 16 at Melbourne Park.
In an emotional message shared on Instagram, Osaka explained the difficult choice to step away despite building momentum in the tournament. “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,” Osaka wrote. “I can’t risk doing any further damage so I can get back on the court.”
Osaka later revealed that the issue was an abdominal injury she had experienced previously, compounded by physical changes following her pregnancy. She admitted she had hoped rest would allow her to play, but the pain worsened during warm-up.
The 28-year-old had shown encouraging signs in Melbourne, winning two hard-fought three-set matches, including a second-round victory over Sorana Cirstea. That match drew attention for a tense post-match exchange but also highlighted Osaka’s growing confidence and match fitness.
Despite the withdrawal, Osaka reflected positively on her time at the tournament.
“I felt really physically healthy fitness-wise. I’m just grateful to be otherwise very healthy, and I hope I can play some good tennis for the rest of the year,” she said.
Osaka’s withdrawal came on a day already disrupted by extreme heat in Melbourne, which forced organisers to activate heat protocols, close stadium roofs and suspend play on outside courts. Her scheduled evening slot had been heavily anticipated, with tickets selling at premium prices.
Osaka has a history of abdominal issues and retired during her third-round match at last year’s Australian Open. Now one of three mothers ranked inside the WTA top 20, she emphasised the need for caution as she continues her return to full competition.
The withdrawal sets up a daunting next challenge for Maddison Inglis, who will face second seed Iga Swiatek in the fourth round, after the Pole survived a stern test earlier in the day. While Osaka’s Melbourne journey ended sooner than she hoped, her performances hinted at a renewed presence on tour.
