Naomi Osaka Remains Hopeful for Australian Open After Auckland Classic Withdrawal

Former Australian Open champion Naomi Osaka is hopeful of playing at Melbourne Park despite withdrawing from the Auckland Classic final due to injury.

Naomi Osaka is maintaining a positive outlook regarding her participation in the Australian Open, despite being forced to withdraw from the Auckland Classic final due to an injury. The 27-year-old former world number one will undergo a scan to assess the extent of the injury, but she remains hopeful about competing at Melbourne Park. Osaka expressed her optimism, saying she is feeling “very optimistic” about her chances of playing at the Australian Open.

Osaka's injury woes resurfaced on Sunday when she was compelled to retire from the Auckland Classic final against Clara Tauson, while leading 6-4. The abdominal injury left Osaka in tears, a poignant moment that highlighted the challenges she has faced in her career. Despite this setback, Osaka's determination and resilience were evident as she looked ahead to the Australian Open, where she has enjoyed significant success, winning the title in 2019 and 2021.

Naomi Osaka provided an update on her injury status, revealing that she would undergo an MRI to assess the extent of the issue. “I'm having an MRI today to assess,” she said in a brief statement. Despite the uncertainty surrounding her injury, Osaka expressed confidence about her prospects of competing at the Australian Open. “I don't feel that it's too serious and I still feel very optimistic about AO,” she added.

Osaka's recent form had been promising, with the former world number one showcasing glimpses of the brilliance that earned her four major titles during her run to the Auckland Classic final. Her efforts were rewarded with a return to the top 50 in the world rankings on Monday. With the Australian Open just around the corner, set to begin on January 14 Sunday, Osaka will be eager to receive a positive diagnosis and continue her momentum.