Naomi Osaka Withdraws from 2026 Australian Open with Left Abdominal Injury Ahead of Third-Round Clash"

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 Naomi Osaka has withdrawn from the 2026 Australian Open due to a left abdominal injury, just hours before her scheduled third-round match against Australian qualifier Maddison Inglis.

The two-time Australian Open champion (2019 and 2021) announced the withdrawal on Saturday, January 24, 2026, citing the need to prioritize her body's recovery. Osaka, who turns 28 this year, has a history of abdominal issues and noted that her body "has changed," making it difficult to continue competing at the high level required in the tournament.

The former world No. 1 had advanced to the third round after hard-fought victories: a three-set win over Antonia Ruzic in the first round and another gritty three-setter against Maria Sakkari in the second, where she battled visible discomfort and illness during the match. Her exit hands Inglis a walkover into the Round of 16 (and effectively the fourth round in some reporting contexts due to the draw progression), guaranteeing the Australian a significant prize money boost and career milestone.

Osaka expressed heartbreak over the decision in statements shared via social media and reported by Tennis Australia and the WTA, emphasizing her disappointment after building momentum in her return to form at Melbourne Park.

This withdrawal comes amid Osaka's ongoing efforts to regain top-level consistency following maternity leave and previous injury setbacks. Fans and analysts have expressed support, with many wishing her a speedy recovery as she focuses on future tournaments.

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