Naomi Osaka may be facing a significant injury just days before the 2025 Australian Open.
The former world No. 1 and four-time Grand Slam champion had to retire from the final of the WTA Auckland Open due to a medical issue. She was leading the match before her exit, leaving her opponent as the tournament’s champion.
Osaka was receiving attention for an apparent abdominal injury before her withdrawal. According to veteran tennis journalist and Osaka biographer Ben Rothenberg, she was visibly upset when calling for a trainer.
This setback comes as Osaka was trying to make a comeback in the tennis world after a year-long break following the birth of her child in 2024. Unfortunately, she has struggled to regain her form and has faced various health issues.
It remains uncertain how this latest injury will affect Osaka’s participation in the upcoming Australian Open. The tournament’s singles draw is set to be announced next week, with the first round scheduled to begin shortly after.